Artwork
Young Italian woman with the dog Puck
Young Italian woman with the dog Puck is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Thérèse Schwartze. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1890, this oil painting by Dutch portraitist Thérèse Schwartze presents a quiet domestic scene. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection and exemplifies the artist’s interest in genre subjects beyond her usual portraiture. The composition centers on a young woman in traditional Italian attire and her small dog, offering a moment of gentle interaction.
Subject & Meaning
The figure wears a Ciociaro costume, a regional dress from central Italy, characterized by a white, billowing‑sleeved blouse and a dark skirt. Her hair is gathered in an up‑do, and she looks down at the light‑coloured dog, named Puck, whose ears droop and whose gaze meets hers. The scene conveys a sense of intimate companionship and everyday life.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil on canvas, Schwartze employs a restrained palette that highlights the contrast between the woman’s white blouse and the dark skirt, while the blue curtain in the background adds depth. The brushwork is smooth and detailed, particularly in the rendering of fabric folds and the dog’s fur, reflecting the artist’s precise, realist approach.
History & Provenance
The painting entered the Rijksmuseum’s holdings after being acquired from a private collection in the early 20th century. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s studio, where Schwartze likely painted it shortly after a trip to Italy, drawing on her observations of regional dress and customs.
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