The artwork “Portrait of the Countess of Carpio, Marquesa de la Solana” is an exquisite oil on canvas painting completed by Francisco Goya in 1793, during the Romanticism period. The dimensions of this striking artwork are 122 x 181 centimeters. It falls within the portrait genre, whereby it features a dignified depiction of the Countess of Carpio, known also as the Marquesa de la Solana.
The artwork captures the countess in a full-length composition, occupant upon a subdued background that accentuates her figure. She is clothed in a sumptuous black dress that, while detailed, does not overpower her visage, which the artist has rendered with careful attention. An elegant white shawl, embellished with a lace pattern, envelopes her torso and arms, adding a textural contrast to her attire. Notably, her head is adorned with a large bow and floral elements, providing a focal point that draws the observer’s eyes towards her face.
Her facial expression is contemplative and serene, with her gaze slightly averted from the viewer, lending an air of introspection and nobility to her portrait. The countess holds a fan gently in her hands, conveying a sense of grace and refinement that is typical of the period’s portraiture. The artist’s use of lighting is adept, with soft illumination highlighting her countenance and hands, while the rest of her figure is cloaked in moody shadows. This delicate balance of light and shadow contributes to the evocative ambiance characteristic of Romantic art. Overall, Goya’s keen ability to capture both the external splendor and the internal personality of his subject is evident in this masterful portrait.
