Artwork

Portrait of a Woman

Portrait of a Woman, by Paul César Helleu, oil, 1909
Portrait of a Woman, by Paul César Helleu, oil, 1909

Portrait of a Woman is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Paul César Helleu. It dates from 1909 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a Woman is a 1909 oil painting by French artist Paul César Helleu, known for capturing the likenesses of high society figures during the Belle Époque.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman in a large hat and light-colored dress, turned slightly towards the viewer with an enigmatic expression, conveying elegance and refinement.

Technique & Style

Helleu's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of volume and depth, characteristic of his refined oil painting technique, aligning with the Post-Impressionist emphasis on expressive form and texture.

History & Provenance

Created in 1909, the painting is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul César Helleu

Artist

Paul César Helleu

Paul César Helleu (17 December 1859 – 23 March 1927) was a French oil painter, pastel artist, drypoint etcher, and designer, best known for his numerous portraits of beautiful society women of the Belle Époque.

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.