Carriera, Rosalba – Head blonde Hermitage ~ part 06

The pastel drawing presents a portrait study of a young woman, cropped closely at the shoulders. The subjects gaze is directed slightly off-center, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation rather than direct engagement with the viewer. Her expression is subtle; a slight parting of the lips suggests a nascent smile or perhaps a trace of melancholy.
The artist has rendered her hair in elaborate curls and ringlets, predominantly in shades of pale yellow and cream, accented by touches of blue ribbon woven throughout. The treatment of the hair demonstrates a delicate handling of pastel, with individual strokes visible that create texture and volume. This technique lends an air of spontaneity to the work, suggesting it may be a preliminary study for a larger composition.
The skin tones are carefully observed, ranging from rosy pink on the cheeks to a more muted peach on the chin and neck. The artist has employed subtle gradations in color to model the form of her face, emphasizing the soft curves of her cheekbones and jawline. A delicate blush is applied to the lips, adding a touch of vibrancy to the overall palette.
The background is loosely rendered in cool blues and yellows, providing a muted contrast to the subjects fair complexion and elaborate hairstyle. The lack of detail in the background directs attention solely to the woman’s face and upper body.
Subtly, the portrait conveys an impression of youthful elegance and refinement. The meticulous rendering of her features suggests a focus on beauty and status, while the slightly averted gaze hints at a more complex inner life. The overall effect is one of restrained grace and quiet dignity, characteristic of aristocratic portraiture from the period.