The artwork entitled “Clara von Bork” was crafted by artist Edward Burne-Jones in the year 1860. This portrait, rendered in watercolor and gouache on paper, measures 34 centimeters in height and 18 centimeters in width. The piece, which is a representation of the Romanticism art movement, is part of the collection at Tate Britain in London, United Kingdom.
The artwork depicts a woman, Clara von Bork, standing in what appears to be a lavishly embellished interior space, gazing directly at the observer. She is clad in a voluminous golden gown which cascades in rich folds to the floor. Her attire features a black bodice with a white undergarment that peeks out around the neckline and sleeves, adding to the refined elegance of her appearance. The woman’s red hair is neatly parted and frames her face, which bears a serene and contemplative expression.
In the background, a detailed scene unfolds. To the left, two individuals can be seen engaging in what might be a domestic activity. On the right, another complex patterned fabric serves as a backdrop, possibly a curtain or a tapestry, adding to the lush atmosphere of the setting. Intriguingly, at the woman’s feet, a small dark feline creature, possibly a cat, is seen, contributing a personal touch to an otherwise formal portrait. The use of vibrant colors and the meticulous rendering of textiles and patterns are indicative of the Romantic sensibility and Burne-Jones’s skillful execution.
