The Bride to Be.

Ginevra de’ Benci.

Sixteen years old.

The portrait.

Made around the time of her engagement, in honor of her upcoming marriage.

Notice the juniper—like a wreath in the background—that appears almost like a headdress.

Apparently, da Vinci included (or ‘was told to include’) the juniper for two reasons—

• One, to add a bit of wordplay, as the meaning of her name, Ginevra, is associated with juniper.
• And two, because juniper also symbolized virtue.

Her virtuousness is expressed by the juniper wreath around her head.
A portrait bearing a built-in review, like a stamp of commissioned social approval.

The artist? Leonardo da Vinci.

Ginevra’s expression?

Speaks Volumes.

Is she wearing the virtuous look? 
 Or the art of exuding indifference? 
  Or is it actual regret escaping through? 
   Or is she simply wearing the "solemn is proper" mask?