Artwork

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova, by Robert Lefèvre, oil, 1800
Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova, by Robert Lefèvre, oil, 1800

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Robert Lefèvre. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays Elisabeta Alexandrovna Stroganova, a member of the prominent Stroganov family, rendered in oil on canvas by Robert Lefèvre in 1800.

The painting portrays Elisabeta Alexandrovna Stroganova, a member of the prominent Stroganov family, rendered in oil on canvas by Robert Lefèvre in 1800. Depicted in a formal pose, the composition emphasizes her aristocratic status through subtle details of dress and posture, reflecting the ceremonial gravitas associated with her lineage. The work was created in France and later entered the collection of the Hermitage Museum, where it remains on display.

Symbolically, the portrait conveys themes of lineage and social prominence, aligning with the cultural values of the Russian nobility during the early 19th century. Its formal structure and restrained palette underscore the sitter's place within elite social circles, while the meticulous rendering of texture highlights the artist's skill in capturing both physical likeness and psychological presence.

Technique & Style

Robert Lefèvre executed the Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova in 1800 using oil paint on a canvas support. The work measures 190 cm in height and 143 cm in width, presenting a large-scale depiction of its subject, Elisabeta Alexandrovna Stroganova. Created in France, the painting adheres to the conventions of the portrait genre, utilizing the fluidity of oil to render the figure.

The composition focuses entirely on the woman, capturing her likeness within the substantial dimensions typical of formal portraiture from this period.

History & Provenance

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova was painted in 1800 by the French artist Robert Lefèvre. The work, executed in oil on canvas, depicts Elisabeta Alexandrovna Stroganova and was produced in France. It measures 190 cm in height and 143 cm in width.

The painting entered the collection of the Hermitage Museum, where it remains today. As an oil-on-canvas portrait, it exemplifies the medium and technique Lefèvre employed in his portrait practice.

Overview

Created in 1800 by French painter Robert Lefèvre, Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova is an oil-on-canvas work depicting Elisabeta Alexandrovna Stroganova, a member of the prominent Stroganov family. The painting is characterized by its neoclassical style, emphasizing clarity and classical references, typical of the era's refined portraiture.

Context

Painted during the transition from the 18th to the 19th century, this work captures the aesthetic preferences of the time, blending neoclassical simplicity with the emerging romanticism's emphasis on individual character. The subject's attire and the book she holds also reflect the intellectual and social aspirations of the aristocracy during this period.

Legacy

While Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova may not be Lefèvre's most celebrated work, it remains a notable example of his neoclassical portraiture style, offering insights into the artistic and social values of early 19th-century Europe. The painting's calm elegance and attention to detail continue to attract viewers interested in the period's cultural and artistic practices.

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Artist & collection

Portrait of Robert Lefèvre

Artist

Robert Lefèvre

Robert Jacques François Faust Lefèvre (French pronunciation: 24 September 1755, in Bayeux – 3 October 1830, in Paris) was a French painter of portraits, history paintings and religious paintings.

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.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova?

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova was painted by Robert Lefèvre in 1800.

Where can I see Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova?

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova?

Portrait of Elisabeth Demidova is associated with Neoclassicism.