Portrait Sketch of a Young Girl – two-sided painting

Before you stands "Portrait Sketch of a Young Girl – two-sided painting," a captivating work from 1894 by the talented Olga Boznańska. This painting, part of the esteemed collection of the National Museum in Kraków, presents a delicate and intimate portrait. Measuring 0.47 meters wide and 0.87 meters high, the artwork portrays a young girl in a seated pose, her gaze slightly averted from the viewer. Her relaxed posture, with her left hand gently resting on her cheek, suggests a moment of quiet contemplation. Her expression is serene, perhaps even slightly melancholic, and her dark brown hair frames her face softly. Clad in a light greyish-blue garment, the girl's figure is rendered with a loose, impressionistic brushwork, visible brushstrokes adding texture and depth to the image. The color palette is muted and subdued, primarily composed of greys, beiges, and pale yellow-greens, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. A subtle suggestion of an interior space forms the background, with a touch of brighter color introduced by a vase of yellow tulips. The soft, diffused light avoids harsh shadows, enhancing the overall sense of tranquility. Boznańska masterfully captures not just the girl's likeness, but also her inner state, inviting viewers into a moment of quiet intimacy and introspection. The lack of sharp outlines and the focus on mood and atmosphere rather than precise detail are hallmarks of the artist's style.