Goya y Lucientes, Francisco Jose de – La femme a l’evantail-lady with a fan. Canvas, 103 x 84 cm R.F. 1137 Part 2 Louvre

Here we observe a portrait of a woman seated in what appears to be a formal setting. The composition is straightforward: she occupies nearly the entire frame, positioned slightly off-center against a dark, indistinct background. This placement emphasizes her presence and directs attention towards her features and attire.
The artist has rendered the subject with meticulous detail, particularly regarding the textures of her clothing and skin. Her dress, in muted grey tones, is characterized by voluminous sleeves gathered at the shoulders and a high waistline – a style indicative of a specific historical period. The delicate lace trim on the sleeves and neckline suggests wealth and refinement. She holds a closed fan in her gloved hands, positioned low near her abdomen; this accessory serves not only as an element of elegance but also subtly obscures part of her body, adding to the sense of restrained formality.
Her expression is complex. While there’s a degree of serenity in her gaze, its tempered by a hint of melancholy or introspection. The eyes are dark and direct, conveying a certain intelligence and perhaps even a touch of defiance. The mouth is closed, contributing to an overall impression of composure but also hinting at unspoken thoughts or emotions.
The lighting is carefully controlled; it illuminates her face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow. This creates a dramatic contrast that further isolates the subject and accentuates her features. The artist’s brushwork appears smooth and blended, contributing to a sense of realism and sophistication.
Subtly, the painting conveys an atmosphere of quiet dignity and social standing. The womans posture is upright, suggesting self-assurance and propriety. However, the subdued color palette and the slightly somber expression introduce a layer of psychological depth that moves beyond mere representation of status. One might interpret this as a commentary on the constraints placed upon women within her societal context – a sense of obligation and decorum masking underlying complexities. The fan itself could be seen as a symbol of both allure and concealment, reflecting the duality inherent in female roles during the period.