The artwork titled “Seated Lady of Constantinople,” created by David Wilkie in 1840, is a Romantic and Orientalist portrait rendered in chalk. The piece, which is housed in the British Museum in London, depicts a seated woman in traditional attire, reflecting the artist’s engagement with Romanticism and Orientalist themes.
In the artwork, a young lady is depicted in a serene seated pose, adorned in elaborate, flowing garments that feature rich colors and intricate patterns. Her attire includes a headpiece, and she sits with a poised and composed demeanor. The soft application of chalk accentuates the delicate features of her face and the graceful folds of her clothing. The background is minimalistic, allowing the viewer’s attention to remain focused on the subject while subtly suggesting the setting of an interior space. Wilkie’s mastery of chalk as a medium is evident in the nuanced textures and tonal variations, capturing both the elegance and cultural essence of the period.
