Artwork

Portrait of a Woman

Portrait of a Woman, by Anton von Maron, oil, 1770
Portrait of a Woman, by Anton von Maron, oil, 1770

Portrait of a Woman is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Anton von Maron. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Anton von Maron’s oil painting, dated 1770, presents a single female sitter rendered in a restrained palette against a deep, unlit backdrop. The work is part of the collection of the State Hermitage Museum, where it remains on display as an example of late‑Baroque portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait shows a woman dressed in an elaborate eighteenth‑century costume, her posture poised with one hand supporting a small, open book and the other resting on her hip. The inclusion of the book suggests literacy or scholarly interests, while her composed expression conveys a sense of self‑assurance typical of genteel portraiture of the period.

Technique & Style

Maron employs a chiaroscuro effect, allowing a focused light to illuminate the sitter’s face and attire while the surrounding space recedes into shadow. This contrast emphasizes the texture of the brown silk dress, lace sleeves, and pearl jewelry, and highlights the intricate coiffure that crowns the figure.

History & Provenance

Since its creation in the late eighteenth century, the painting has been held in the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. Documentation traces its acquisition to the museum’s early collection efforts, though earlier ownership details remain unrecorded.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Anton von Maron

Artist

Anton von Maron

Anton von Maron (1733–1808) was an artist, born in Vienna.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.