The artwork titled “Portrait of Isa with black dress,” created by Giorgio de Chirico in 1935 in Rome, Italy, is a poignant example of neo-baroque portraiture. Executed in oil on canvas, the piece conveys a profound sense of contemplation through its subject, Isa, who is depicted in a black dress. The genre of the artwork is a portrait, seamlessly blending classical techniques with neo-baroque stylistic elements.
In the artwork, Isa is presented seated on a chair with richly carved details. Her attire, a simple yet elegant black dress with a scalloped neckline, emphasizes her poised demeanor. She is positioned with one arm draped over a green fabric, creating a contrast against the muted background. The soft, golden tones of her hair and skin stand out delicately against the more subdued hues of her dress and the background. Her expression, contemplative and slightly distant, adds an emotional depth to the piece. The precise rendering of textures, from the smoothness of her skin to the intricate folds of the fabric, demonstrates de Chirico’s masterful technique in capturing the essence of his subject.