The narrative recounts the life of a Dutch painter, who becomes infatuated with his master's niece, Rose Velderkaust. Schalken, the painter, is a diligent student under Gerard Douw, who is unaware of Schalken's feelings for Rose. As Schalken's affection deepens, he learns that he must wait for success in his art to win her hand, as her guardian, Douw, would not approve of a union with a struggling artist. One evening, while working late in Douw's studio, Schalken encounters a mysterious stranger, Mynher Vanderhausen, who delivers a message to Douw. Vanderhausen expresses a desire to marry Rose and offers a substantial dowry, which Douw finds appealing despite the stranger's unsettling demeanor. Vanderhausen's wealth and insistence lead Douw to agree to the marriage, signing a contract that binds Rose to the stranger. On the night of the engagement, Vanderhausen arrives, but his appearance is grotesque and unsettling, causing discomfort to Douw and Schalken. Despite Rose's initial fear, Douw dismisses her concerns, believing that wealth can outweigh physical appearance. Shortly after the marriage, Rose mysteriously disappears, leaving Douw anxious and confused. In the years that follow, Schalken's ambition grows, but he remains haunted by Rose's absence. Douw, concerned for his niece, travels to Rotterdam to find her but discovers that Vanderhausen is a phantom, with no trace of him or Rose in the city. One night, Rose returns, disheveled and frantic, pleading for help. She exhibits signs of terror and hunger, consuming food ravenously. As she recovers, she expresses fear of Vanderhausen, claiming he is with her. When Douw leaves the room to fetch a candle, the door slams shut, and Rose's screams fill the air. When they finally break in, she has vanished, leaving no trace behind. Years later, Schalken, now an established artist, encounters a vision of Rose in a church, leading him to a hidden chamber where he sees Vanderhausen's corpse. This encounter solidifies the mystery of Rose's fate, leaving Schalken with a haunting memory and a painting that captures the essence of his lost love. The story concludes with the unresolved fate of Rose and the enigmatic nature of Vanderhausen, emphasizing themes of love, ambition, and the supernatural.
By J. Sheridan Le Fanu · First published 1837 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Mystery, Romance