Study of a young woman Stanisław Chlebowski (1835-1884)

The painting presents a close-up portrait of a young woman in profile. She is positioned slightly off-center, her gaze directed towards an unseen point beyond the frames edge. The artist has chosen a somber palette; deep browns and blacks dominate the background, creating a sense of enclosure and emphasizing the figure’s luminosity.
The subject’s skin tones are rendered with subtle variations, suggesting a careful observation of light and shadow. A soft, diffused light illuminates her face and upper body, highlighting the delicate curve of her neck and the contours of her shoulder. The artist has employed loose brushstrokes to depict the hair, giving it a naturalistic texture and volume; strands fall loosely around her face, partially obscuring her ear.
She wears a draped garment – likely a shawl or scarf – that clings loosely to her shoulders, adding a touch of elegance while also contributing to the overall softness of the composition. Her hand is raised towards her chin in a gesture that conveys introspection and perhaps melancholy. The placement of the hand, pressed lightly against her face, suggests contemplation rather than distress.
The background’s darkness serves not only as contrast but also contributes to an atmosphere of quiet solitude. It allows the viewers attention to remain focused entirely on the woman and her internal state. There is a sense of intimacy in this portrayal; it feels like a private moment captured, offering a glimpse into the subjects thoughts or emotions. The lack of any discernible setting further reinforces this feeling of introspection, suggesting that the portrait aims to explore psychological depth rather than depict a specific narrative event.