Portrait of a young woman, 1460-75, 46x33 cm, Antonio del Pollaiolo

The painting presents a bust-length portrait of a young woman in profile. The composition is rigidly formal; she faces left, her gaze directed towards an unseen point beyond the frame. This positioning immediately establishes a sense of distance and reserve, preventing direct engagement with the viewer.
Here we see a meticulous attention to detail in rendering the subject’s features. The artist has captured a delicate bone structure – a high forehead, a slender nose, and a subtly defined chin – all contributing to an impression of refinement and aristocratic bearing. The skin tone is rendered with subtle gradations of light and shadow, suggesting a careful observation of naturalism while maintaining an idealized quality.
The woman’s hair is styled in an elaborate updo, secured by a jeweled headband that draws attention to the forehead and emphasizes its height. Strands of hair escape the coiffure, softening the rigid formality of the hairstyle and introducing a touch of apparent spontaneity. The jewelry – a delicate necklace with a pendant – is rendered with precision, highlighting the sitter’s status and wealth.
The clothing provides further clues about her social standing. A dark green gown forms the base, its neckline adorned with intricate embroidery featuring floral motifs in red and gold tones. This rich ornamentation underscores the subjects affluence and taste. The fabric appears to drape naturally, suggesting a degree of realism in the artist’s rendering of textiles.
The background is a muted, indistinct greenish-grey tone, devoid of any specific details. This lack of context serves to isolate the figure and focus attention entirely on her person. The limited palette contributes to an overall sense of solemnity and dignity.
Subtly, theres a suggestion of melancholy in the woman’s expression. While not overtly sorrowful, her gaze possesses a quiet introspection that hints at inner thoughts or perhaps a certain resignation. This emotional complexity adds depth to the portrait, moving it beyond a mere representation of physical appearance. The painting conveys an impression of controlled elegance and restrained emotion – characteristics often associated with noble women in the period.