Romantic Portrait of a Girl Holding Flowers, French School. Late 1820s. Cm 88x75

Romantic Portrait of a Young Girl Holding Flowers.
French School, Late 1820s.
Oil on Canvas

Date: Late 1820s
Gilded wooden frame, XIX century.
French school.

Dimensions:
- With frame: Width 75 cm x Height 88 cm
- Without frame: Width 62 cm x Height 71 cm

Good overall condition. The canvas has been relined.

This portrait, based on the style of painting and the attire of the young woman, can be dated to the late 1820s, firmly placing it within the Romantic period. Romanticism, with its emphasis on emotional depth, individuality, and a connection to nature, is reflected in the delicate portrayal of the subject and the soft, naturalistic color palette.

The young woman is dressed in a simple yet elegant white dress with an open neckline and short puffed sleeves, indicative of the fashion of the period. Draped over her dress is a dark apron, which she gently holds with one hand as it cradles a small bouquet of freshly picked wildflowers. The act of gathering these flowers is a quintessentially Romantic gesture, symbolizing an intimate connection to nature and an appreciation for its fleeting beauty. This simple, poetic act evokes the idea of solitude, contemplation, and a moment of harmony between the individual and the natural world.

The flowers, possibly native to a rural French landscape, speak of spontaneity and an authentic relationship with the surrounding environment. The red Kashmir shawl, richly decorated and casually draped on the chair or over her arm, adds an additional layer of refinement, contrasting with the simplicity of the natural blooms.

The scene embodies the Romantic ideal of capturing both the outer beauty of the world and the inner emotions of the subject. The soft brushwork and harmonious composition emphasize the introspective and delicate nature of the figure, while the vibrant yet balanced color palette creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Set in its original gilded wooden frame, the painting preserves its historical and artistic integrity. Its stylistic and thematic elements strongly suggest a connection to the French Romantic school, making it a poetic and emotive representation of the late 1820s.