Isaac Israels: Mata-Hari

Abstract

The life-sized portrait of Mata-Hari by Isaac Israels is a favourite among visitors of the Kröller-Müller Museum. Not only is the elegant self-confidence of the woman impressive, but the life story of Mata-Hari, born Margaretha Zella, also appeals to the imagination. 'Isaac Israels. Mata-Hari' is the second publication in a series in which the Kröller-Müller Museum spotlights works that are of great importance within the collection, play a prominent role in art history and are often representative for the oeuvre of the artist. In 'As a depiction she is something extraordinary', Jeroen Kapelle tells the story of Mata-Hari and Isaac Israels, but also of the interest shown by art advisor Hendricus Petrus Bremmer and Helene Kröller-Müller in Israels' work in general and in this portrait in particular.