The artwork, titled “Giulia Leonardi,” was created by Ferdinand Hodler in 1910. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece is part of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and falls under the portrait genre.
In this striking portrait, the subject is depicted in profile against a muted, textured background. The detail given to the subject’s features is notable, with a particular emphasis on the contours of the face and the soft yet rich complexion. The dark hair is painted with dense, bold strokes, providing a stark contrast to the delicate skin tones. The overall palette is subtle, yet the artist employs expressive brushwork to bring depth and vitality to the composition. The elegant pose and serene expression of the subject are characteristic of Hodler’s stylistic approach within the Art Nouveau movement, capturing both realism and an ethereal, almost timeless quality.
