Artwork

Prinsesse Louise

Prinsesse Louise, by Unknown, oil, 1740
Prinsesse Louise, by Unknown, oil, 1740

Prinsesse Louise is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

The work titled "Prinsesse Louise" is an oil painting that portrays a young woman dressed in a vivid red robe edged with gold. She is presented against a dark backdrop, which accentuates the bright colors of her attire and the pale complexion of her face.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter wears a pearl headpiece and a deep‑necked gown adorned with orange floral motifs. In her left hand she holds a small, ambiguous object—perhaps a fan or a letter—suggesting a moment of private contemplation or communication.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on canvas, the surface appears smooth and slightly muted, indicating some age‑related fading. The artist employs a strong contrast between the luminous red garment and the dark background, a compositional choice that draws the viewer’s eye to the figure’s face and accessories.

History & Provenance

The portrait is part of the collection at Statens Museum for Kunst, Denmark’s national gallery, where it is currently displayed. Details of its acquisition or earlier ownership are not provided in the source material.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known