Yvonne Kleiss-herzig Or Herzig (1895-1968) Portrait Of An Algerian Orientalist Woman

This large-format portrait depicts an Algerian woman shown in profile, wearing a richly draped turban in ochre, golden, and green tones. The dignified, elongated profile emphasizes the model’s quiet strength, while the piece of jewelry worn around her neck highlights her cultural and social identity. The mixed-media technique provides relief, softness, and subtle modeling of the features, revealing a warm light that sculpts the face and silhouette.

Born in Tizi Ouzou, in the heart of Kabylia, Yvonne Kleiss-Herzig distinguished herself as one of the major figures of 20th-century Algerian painting. Trained in Algiers and later at the Académie Julian in Paris, she devoted a large part of her work to portraying Algerian women and traditions, with an intimate and authentic perspective. Unlike studio orientalism, often marked by fantasy, her approach reflects a lived orientalism, shaped by direct encounters, observation, and deep respect for her subjects.

She exhibited regularly at the Salon des Artistes Algériens from 1918 onward, as well as in Paris at the Salon des Artistes Français, where she received an honorable mention in 1920. She was awarded several important distinctions, including the Prix de la Ville d’Alger and the Grand Prix Artistique de l’Algérie in 1928, confirming her official recognition.

This portrait thus bears witness to her human sensitivity, her attachment to local identities, and her talent for capturing the inner presence of her models. Expressive, balanced, and culturally grounded, it is a fine Orientalist work—both artistic and ethnographic—emblematic of Kleiss-Herzig’s style and her distinctive place in the history of Maghrebi art.

The artwork is in good condition; some foxing is visible, mainly in the lower section (see photos).
Protected under glass, the colors remain fresh.
Sold with its original frame, which requires restoration.

Frame dimensions: 57 × 43 cm
Paper dimensions: 59 × 39 cm

We are actively seeking works by Orientalist painters, such as those by Yvonne Kleiss-Herzig—please feel free to contact us.

Photographs were taken in natural light.
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