Artwork
Portrait of a Lady in Turkish Fancy Dress
Portrait of a Lady in Turkish Fancy Dress is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean-Baptiste Greuze. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Painted in 1796 by French artist Jean-Baptiste Greuze, Portrait of a Lady in Turkish Fancy Dress is an oil painting characterized by its depiction of a woman in elaborate, exoticized Turkish attire.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a woman, is dressed in a fantastical Turkish-inspired costume, complete with a white and gold dress, red belt, blue fur-trimmed coat, and an ornate turban adorned with feathers and jewels. She holds green leaves, adding a subtle natural element to the otherwise opulent scene.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the work aligns with the Rococo movement's emphasis on elegance and exoticism. The composition contrasts the subject's vibrant, detailed attire against a somber, dark background, with architectural elements (stone wall, column, draped ceiling) providing depth.
History & Provenance
Created in 1796, the painting is now part of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art's collection.
Context
Reflecting late 18th-century European fascination with Orientalism, the painting embodies the era's romanticized view of Turkish culture through fashion and accessories.
Legacy
As a piece by Greuze, known for his portraits and genre scenes, Portrait of a Lady in Turkish Fancy Dress contributes to the broader legacy of Rococo portraiture and the artistic capture of European Orientalist sentiments during its time.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Baptiste Greuze (French pronunciation: 21 August 1725 – 4 March 1805) was a French painter of portraits, genre scenes, and history painting.
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