Charming Portrait Of A Young Woman Wearing A Lace "modesty" Gauze, Empire Period
Charming Portrait of a Young Woman Wearing a Lace "Modesty" Gauze, Empire Period
This magnificent pastel on paper, dating from the early 19th century, depicts the bust of a young woman from the French aristocracy or upper middle class during the reign of Napoleon I.
Subject and Empire Aesthetics:
The young woman is depicted in a classic pose typical of the Empire period, with her upper body slightly turned and her gentle yet direct gaze directed toward the viewer. Her face is exceptionally soft, with delicately rosy cheeks.
Her hairstyle, simple and elegant, is typical of Empire fashion, influenced by Greek and Roman antiquity. Her hair is styled into a structured yet supple bun, gathered fairly high, with a few curls escaping onto her forehead and temples. A simple ribbon delicately encircles her head.
She wears a dress with a generous neckline, characteristic of the period. The sweetheart neckline, rather than being left bare, is adorned with a “modesty panel” of fine lace (also called a “heart-on-heart” or guimpe), which rises slightly and highlights the grace of her neck. The short sleeves are puffed and delicately pleated. The dress itself is a deep blue-green, dotted with small, discreet floral motifs. A delicate pearl necklace adorns her neck.
Technique and Mastery:
This pastel demonstrates the mastery of portraiture by an artist of the French school, following in the tradition of the great portraitists of that period. The pastel technique lends the work an incomparable softness and delicacy. The transitions are subtle, the skin tones are fresh, and the textures of the fabrics—the satin of the dress and the lightness of the lace—are rendered with meticulous realism. The background, simple and uncluttered in neutral tones, draws attention to the model and the light illuminating her.
Presentation and Frame:
The work is presented in its original Empire-era frame, made of wood gilded with gold leaf. The frame is adorned with a frieze of repeating godrons and a “barley grain” or “twisted ribbon” motif on the inner border, typical of the rigorous, neoclassical aesthetic of this period. The gilding has remained fresh and luminous, lending a prestigious luster to the entire piece.
Condition:
The work is in fair condition. The pastel has not lost its vibrancy, and the colors remain fresh. The paper shows slight discoloration at the bottom (visible in photos). The period frame shows minor signs of wear and normal patina for its age, with no notable damage, preserving its authenticity and charm. The entire piece has been carefully inspected and cleaned.
Dimensions without frame: 50 cm / 42 cm
with frame: 61 cm / 52 cm
Contact me for more information; international buyers are welcome.
This magnificent pastel on paper, dating from the early 19th century, depicts the bust of a young woman from the French aristocracy or upper middle class during the reign of Napoleon I.
Subject and Empire Aesthetics:
The young woman is depicted in a classic pose typical of the Empire period, with her upper body slightly turned and her gentle yet direct gaze directed toward the viewer. Her face is exceptionally soft, with delicately rosy cheeks.
Her hairstyle, simple and elegant, is typical of Empire fashion, influenced by Greek and Roman antiquity. Her hair is styled into a structured yet supple bun, gathered fairly high, with a few curls escaping onto her forehead and temples. A simple ribbon delicately encircles her head.
She wears a dress with a generous neckline, characteristic of the period. The sweetheart neckline, rather than being left bare, is adorned with a “modesty panel” of fine lace (also called a “heart-on-heart” or guimpe), which rises slightly and highlights the grace of her neck. The short sleeves are puffed and delicately pleated. The dress itself is a deep blue-green, dotted with small, discreet floral motifs. A delicate pearl necklace adorns her neck.
Technique and Mastery:
This pastel demonstrates the mastery of portraiture by an artist of the French school, following in the tradition of the great portraitists of that period. The pastel technique lends the work an incomparable softness and delicacy. The transitions are subtle, the skin tones are fresh, and the textures of the fabrics—the satin of the dress and the lightness of the lace—are rendered with meticulous realism. The background, simple and uncluttered in neutral tones, draws attention to the model and the light illuminating her.
Presentation and Frame:
The work is presented in its original Empire-era frame, made of wood gilded with gold leaf. The frame is adorned with a frieze of repeating godrons and a “barley grain” or “twisted ribbon” motif on the inner border, typical of the rigorous, neoclassical aesthetic of this period. The gilding has remained fresh and luminous, lending a prestigious luster to the entire piece.
Condition:
The work is in fair condition. The pastel has not lost its vibrancy, and the colors remain fresh. The paper shows slight discoloration at the bottom (visible in photos). The period frame shows minor signs of wear and normal patina for its age, with no notable damage, preserving its authenticity and charm. The entire piece has been carefully inspected and cleaned.
Dimensions without frame: 50 cm / 42 cm
with frame: 61 cm / 52 cm
Contact me for more information; international buyers are welcome.
480 €
Period: 19th century
Style: Consulat, Empire
Condition: Good condition
Material: Pastel
Length: 50
Width: 42
Reference (ID): 1814005
Availability: In stock
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