Lorenzo Lotto – Portrait of a Woman inspired by Lucretia Part 5 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a woman in three-quarter pose, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a solemn intensity. She is positioned against a dark, undefined background that emphasizes her figure and attire. The artist has rendered her skin tone as pale, contrasting sharply with the rich colors of her clothing.
Her dress is notable for its elaborate design, featuring puffed sleeves in alternating panels of orange and green silk, trimmed with white lace at the cuffs and neckline. A delicate gold chain adorns her neck, partially concealed by a high collar. The headpiece, a complex arrangement of white fabric and what appear to be ribbons or flowers, adds to the overall impression of wealth and status. Her hair is styled in tight curls, framing a face marked by a certain melancholy.
In her left hand, she holds a small, intricately carved wooden chair. This object seems somewhat out of place within the context of her opulent dress, suggesting a symbolic significance beyond mere decorative detail.
Resting on a red velvet cushion to her right is a sheet of paper bearing an image and text. The drawing depicts a female figure in classical garb, seemingly engaged in a dramatic act – possibly self-sacrifice or suicide. Beneath this illustration, Latin script is visible, reading Nec villa impediit, nec spes, nec vita. This translates roughly as “Neither property hindered, nor hope, nor life.”
The inclusion of the Lucretia motif introduces a powerful subtext. Lucretia’s story, recounted in Roman history, involves her suicide after being violated to preserve her honor and trigger a rebellion against tyranny. The womans pose, combined with the reference to Lucretia, suggests themes of virtue, sacrifice, and the burden of reputation. It is possible that the portrait intends to portray the sitter as embodying these qualities – a woman who values integrity above personal comfort or safety.
The chair held by the woman could be interpreted as representing her position within society – a seat of power she may feel compelled to relinquish in order to uphold moral principles. The overall effect is one of restrained emotion and quiet dignity, hinting at an inner turmoil masked by outward composure.