Portrait of a girl with a fan Giacomo (Pitocchetto) Ceruti (1698-1767)

The portrait presents a young woman in a three-quarter view, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a connection. Her complexion is pale, contrasted by vibrant auburn hair styled in loose curls that frame her face. The artist has rendered her features with a degree of realism, though softened by an idealized quality characteristic of portraiture from this period.
She wears a blue garment, the fabric appearing to be of a fine material, gathered at the neckline with delicate ribbons. A silver necklace adorned with a pendant rests against her skin, adding a touch of understated elegance. Her left hand holds a closed fan, its pinkish-purple hue providing a focal point and introducing a note of color that complements her hair. The wrist is visible beneath the sleeve, displaying a bracelet – a subtle indication of status or personal adornment.
The background is deliberately muted, a warm brown tone that allows the figure to dominate the composition without distraction. This simplicity emphasizes the sitter’s presence and directs attention to her expression and attire.
Beyond the surface representation, several subtexts emerge. The fan, a common accessory in portraiture of this era, often signified flirtation or modesty – its closed state here might suggest a restrained demeanor or an invitation to further interaction. Her direct gaze could be interpreted as confidence or perhaps a carefully constructed pose intended to convey a particular impression. The overall effect is one of controlled elegance and quiet self-assurance, suggesting a young woman from a comfortable social standing who understands the conventions of portraiture and her role within them.