Italian Woman Of Cervara In Traditional Costume, 19th Century Watercolor And Pencil On Paper

Italian Woman of Cervara in Traditional Costume, 19th Century

Watercolor and pencil on paper
27 × 20 cm unframed
44cm x 38 cm with frame
Antique giltwood frame with hand-blown glass

This elegant female figure is identified by a pencil inscription in the upper right corner reading Cervara, a mountain village in Lazio long frequented by artists and travelers attracted by the traditional costumes of central Italy.

The white veil framing the face, the coral necklace, the structured bodice, the striped apron, and the full dark skirt reflect careful attention to local dress and its distinctive details.

The preparatory pencil drawing remains partially visible beneath the watercolor. The sheet belongs to a series devoted to Italian costumes; other examples from the same group bear French inscriptions, suggesting the work of a French-speaking artist active in Italy during the 19th century.

The work belongs to the tradition of costume studies that enjoyed great popularity between the late 18th and 19th centuries, combining ethnographic observation with the culture of travel.

Condition consistent with age, with light sun fading to the paper.