Who painted Portrait of artist’s wife?

Portrait of artist’s wife was painted by Ksawery Pillati in 1882.

Where can I see Portrait of artist’s wife?

Portrait of artist’s wife is held by National Museum in Warsaw.

Artwork

Portrait of artist’s wife

Portrait of artist’s wife is an oil painting by Ksawery Pillati. It dates from 1882 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1882, this oil painting by Polish artist Ksawery Pillati depicts a seated woman in a restrained composition. The work is part of the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw, where it is displayed among the museum’s 19th‑century holdings.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter appears to be the artist’s spouse, identifiable by her dark hair and modest attire. She wears a dark jacket trimmed with a white collar, complemented by a scarf of red and green hues. The subdued expression and quiet pose convey a contemplative, somber atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Pillati employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, juxtaposing deep shadows with illuminated areas to model the figure’s features and give the portrait a three‑dimensional presence. The dark background recedes, allowing the light on the face and clothing to become the focal point, enhancing the overall tonal contrast.

History & Provenance

Since its creation in the early 1880s, the portrait has remained in Poland, eventually entering the National Museum’s holdings in Warsaw. The museum acquired the piece as part of its effort to preserve representative works of Polish realist portraiture from the late 19th century.