An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Portrait of a Woman, Possibly a Nun of San Secondo; (verso) Scene in GrisailleJacometto (Jacometto Veneziano)
Italian, active Venice by ca. 1472–died before 1498
ca. 1485–95
Overall 4 x 2 7/8 in. (10.2 x 7.3 cm); recto and verso, painted surface 3 3/4 x 2 1/2 in. (9.5 x 6.4 cm)
Painting
Oil on wood; (verso: oil and gold on wood)
Robert Lehman Collection
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
In "Portrait of a Woman, Possibly a Nun of San Secondo," we see a serene figure, her gaze steady and contemplative. The artist, Jacometto Veneziano, captures her essence with a delicate balance between realism and the ethereal. The soft colors of her attire contrast beautifully with the vibrant blue sky and gentle hills in the background, suggesting a world both grounded and spiritual.
Her expression hints at a story untold, perhaps reflecting her life dedicated to service or devotion. The subtle details in her clothing, especially the way the fabric falls around her shoulders, show Jacometto's skill and attention to texture. Behind her, the serene landscape adds depth, inviting viewers to ponder her thoughts and life experiences.
On the verso, a scene in grisaille—monochromatic tones—serves as a striking counterpoint to her vibrant portrait. It evokes a sense of mystery, as if representing the inner world she navigates. This juxtaposition between the lively foreground and the quiet, muted tones at the back creates a dialogue between presence and solitude, inviting us to reflect on our own inner journeys as we gaze upon this remarkable work.
About the artist
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