Goya y Lucientes, Francisco Jose de – The countess del Carpio, marquesa de la Solana (Maria Rita Barrenechea, 1757-1795) Painted ca. 1795, the year of her death. Canvas, 181 x 122 cm R.F. 1942-23 Part 3 Louvre

The portrait presents a woman in full length, positioned centrally against a muted, atmospheric background. The composition is formal and upright, emphasizing her stature and conveying a sense of dignified composure. She stands facing forward, with a slight turn of the head towards the viewer’s left, creating an impression of approachable accessibility while maintaining a reserved demeanor.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by dark blues and greens, which contribute to a somber yet elegant mood. The womans dress is rendered in a deep blue velvet, its voluminous skirt cascading around her feet with a subtle suggestion of movement. A delicate white blouse peeks from beneath the gown, softened by a sheer, gauzy shawl draped loosely over her shoulders. This layering of fabrics introduces textural complexity and adds to the overall impression of refinement.
Her hair is styled in an elaborate fashion, adorned with a cluster of pink flowers that provide a focal point against the darker tones of her attire. The face itself is painted with meticulous detail; the eyes possess a certain melancholy, while the mouth is set in a gentle, almost melancholic smile. She holds a fan delicately in her gloved hand, a common accessory signifying status and leisure during this period.
The background is indistinct, rendered in broad strokes of grey-green that seem to dissolve into shadow. This lack of detail draws attention to the figure and creates an illusion of depth, placing her within an undefined space. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating her face and upper body while leaving the lower portion of the composition shrouded in darkness.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of a person, the painting suggests themes of social standing and mortality. The elaborate dress and accessories are clear indicators of wealth and privilege. However, the subdued color scheme and the woman’s somewhat wistful expression hint at underlying sadness or perhaps an awareness of the fleeting nature of life – particularly poignant given that this portrait was painted in the year of her death. There is a quiet dignity to the portrayal, suggesting a complex personality beneath the surface of aristocratic formality. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and subtle emotional depth.