The artwork, titled “Margherita Goldsmid, later Mrs Raphael,” is a portrait by John Singer Sargent, created in 1906. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece exemplifies the Realism art movement and measures 142.2 x 104.1 cm. Presently housed in a private collection, the painting captures a sophisticated and serene likeness of the subject.
The artwork features a young woman elegantly seated in an ornate chair, exuding an air of refinement and grace. She is adorned in a luxurious white gown with lace and ruffle details, accessorized with a delicate necklace and a feather in her hair. Her gentle gaze and poised demeanor are hallmarks of Sargent’s skill in portraiture. The composition is completed with the inclusion of a side table adorned with books, juxtaposing intellectual pursuits with the opulent setting. The dark backdrop contrasts beautifully with the soft light illuminating her figure, highlighting the texture and depth of the fabrics and her delicate complexion. The artist’s careful attention to detail and masterful use of light and shade bring a sense of realism and vitality to the portrait, making it a captivating representation of the subject.