Artwork

Portrait of an unidentified princess

Portrait of an unidentified princess, by Ernst Gebauer, oil, 1809
Portrait of an unidentified princess, by Ernst Gebauer, oil, 1809

Portrait of an unidentified princess is an oil painting by the Biedermeier artist Ernst Gebauer. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of an unidentified princess is a 1809 oil painting by Ernst Gebauer, a German artist associated with the Biedermeier movement.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a woman, likely a princess, standing before a dark red curtain, wearing a pale green dress and a crown. She is accompanied by a decorated pedestal with a vase of flowers and two birds, symbolizing her status.

Technique & Style

Gebauer's use of chiaroscuro creates a soft, glowing effect on the subject's face and dress against the dark background. The pedestal's details, such as the birds and carved wreath, are rendered with a high level of realism, giving them a three-dimensional appearance.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the National Museum in Warsaw's collection. Gebauer was known for his scenes from the War of Liberation, but this portrait showcases his skill in figure painting.

Artist & collection

Artist

Ernst Gebauer

Ernst Gebauer (23 May 1782 – 7 July 1865) was a German painter. His works from the War of Liberation against Napoleon's rule are particularly well known.