Portrait of a woman

Portrait of a woman

Artwork Type: Painting

Artwork Date: 1780 - 1788

Institution Name: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

Artwork Size: 0.49m x 0.6m

Author Name: Unknown

Description:

This portrait, painted between 1780 and 1788, depicts an unknown woman set against a muted, dark background. The oval framing of the composition draws focus to the subject's face and upper body.

The woman is rendered with a lifelike quality, her gaze directed slightly to the viewer's right. Her expression is serene and composed, hinting at a sense of quiet confidence. Her complexion is fair, with rosy cheeks and lips that subtly contrast with her powdered hair and the neutral backdrop.

Her elaborate hairstyle, typical of the late 18th century, features voluminous, powdered curls piled atop her head and adorned with a simple blue ribbon. A single gold earring dangles from her left earlobe, catching the light.

Her attire reflects the fashion of the era, with a low-cut, blue bodice peeking out from beneath a sheer white overdress. The overdress is gathered and pleated, creating a sense of movement and texture. The striped pattern on the bodice and the delicate folds of the fabric add visual interest to the composition.

The painting's muted color palette, dominated by cool blues, grays, and whites, contributes to the overall atmosphere of understated elegance and refinement. The artist's skillful use of light and shadow brings depth and dimension to the subject's face and clothing, further enhancing the portrait's realism.