Stefanina Primicile Carafa, Marchioness of Cicerale and Duchess of Montejasi (c. 1875)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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More about this artwork
This evocative portrait by Edgar Degas, titled "Stefanina Primicile Carafa, Marchioness of Cicerale and Duchess of Montejasi" (circa 1875), offers a glimpse into the artist’s foray into the nobility of the 19th century through his painting. Capturing the refined and introspective bearing of the Marchioness, Degas demonstrates his mastery in portrait artistry, something less known in comparison to his studies of dancers and everyday life.The subject, Stefanina Primicile Carafa, is rendered with subdued tones, primarily in blacks and browns, that emphasize her dignified yet somewhat somber demeanor. The brushwork combines smoothness in her facial features with rougher strokes in the background and her attire, conveying a depth of character and the complexity of her persona. Notably, her direct gaze and the subtle modeling of her face suggest an inner strength and contemplative nature.Typical of Degas's style, the background is understated yet textured, allowing the viewer to focus intensely on the subject's face and upper body. This technique ensures that the emotional resonance and psychological insight of the portrait are conveyed powerfully, underscoring the personal prestige and the nuanced human presence of the Marchioness.