Artwork

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church, by Francesco Paolo Michetti, pastel, 1886
Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church, by Francesco Paolo Michetti, pastel, 1886

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church is a pastel drawing by the Impressionist artist Francesco Paolo Michetti. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:signed by artist, upper right (vertically), in black chalk, Michetti / 216; by artist (?), lower right, in graphite, 216
Markings
Marked:label: verso of backing board, Proprietà dell'avv. Camillio Giussani

About this work

Overview

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church is a pastel drawing created by Francesco Paolo Michetti in 1886 on blue laid paper, possibly primed with beige gouache.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman dressed for church, wearing a long white dress, red and black striped shawl, and hat, holding a rosary. Her attire and accessories convey quiet dignity and reverence, underscoring her devout Catholicism.

Technique & Style

Michetti's use of pastel on prepared paper achieves a soft, nuanced effect. The light brown background and delicate rendering of the subject's clothing and accessories evoke a sense of intimacy and realism.

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Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church?

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church was painted by Francesco Paolo Michetti in 1886.

Where can I see Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church?

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church?

Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church?

Museum-quality prints of Southern Italian Woman Dressed for Church are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.