Portrait of a Young Woman, Russian School, 19th century

This charming young woman evokes Russian painting. Dating from the second half of the 19th century, this work is executed on an unusual support: a brass panel, the surface of which—surrounding the portrait—is engraved with scrolls and arabesque motifs. This gilded brass ground recalls the rizas that sometimes adorn icons. This highly original technique presents undeniable aesthetic interest, enhancing the profile of this elegant young woman by making it stand out.

This high-quality portrait brings to mind certain works by Ilya Repin, a Russian artist associated with the movement known as the “Wanderers.”

Ilya Yefimovich Repin was born on July 24, 1844, in Chuguyev, near Kharkiv—then part of the Russian Empire, now in Ukraine—and died on September 29, 1930, in Kuokkala, Finland. He began as an icon painter, then studied drawing with Ivan Kramskoi, before continuing his training at the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts.

The panel is enhanced by a rosewood frame highlighted with light wood stringing.
19th century

Frame dimensions: 36 cm x 31 cm
Sight: 23.5 cm x 18.5 cm