A young Turkish musician with a kopuz Luigi Crosio (1835-1915)

Here we observe a portrait of a young woman, presumably from a region associated with Turkish culture, holding and gazing at a stringed instrument resembling a kopuz. The composition is vertically oriented, placing emphasis on the figures presence and her interaction with the musical object.
The subject’s gaze is directed slightly off-center, suggesting introspection or perhaps an engagement with something beyond the immediate visual field. Her expression is complex; it conveys a sense of melancholy tinged with quiet dignity. The artist has rendered her features with considerable detail, highlighting the dark eyes and full lips, which contribute to a feeling of both vulnerability and strength.
The costume she wears – a white head covering adorned with what appears to be embroidery or precious stones, along with a pearl necklace and earrings – indicates a degree of social standing or cultural significance. The clothing’s texture is rendered with delicate brushstrokes, creating a sense of softness and richness. The instrument itself is positioned prominently in her hands; the strings are taut, suggesting readiness for performance.
Behind the woman, a backdrop of draped fabric creates depth and obscures any specific location. The floral pattern on the curtain introduces an element of decorative beauty but also serves to further isolate the figure from a concrete setting. A small, tasseled cushion rests at her feet, adding another layer of detail and visual interest.
The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating the woman’s face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow. This technique draws attention to the subjects emotional state and reinforces her sense of isolation. The overall effect is one of romanticized exoticism – a common trope in depictions of non-European cultures during the period when this work was likely created. The painting seems to explore themes of cultural identity, musical tradition, and perhaps a subtle commentary on the gaze of the observer upon the other.