Anna Elisabeth von der Schulenburg (1720-1741) Antoine Pesne

Here we observe a portrait depicting a young woman in formal attire. She is positioned slightly off-center within the frame, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a composed and somewhat melancholic expression. The composition adheres to conventions of aristocratic portraiture from the eighteenth century.
The subject’s dress immediately establishes her social standing. A dark gown, likely black or a very deep blue, dominates the visual field. Its rich fabric appears to drape elegantly, emphasizing the figures form while maintaining an air of restrained luxury. The décolletage is adorned with a delicate pink bow, providing a subtle contrast against the somber tones of the dress and drawing attention to her neck and shoulders. The sleeves are wide and elaborately gathered at the wrist, further highlighting the fashion of the period. Matching floral embellishments on the cuffs echo the bow, creating visual harmony.
Her hairstyle is characteristic of the era: voluminous, powdered white, and ornamented with a small feather or plume. The meticulous arrangement suggests careful attention to appearance and adherence to societal expectations regarding female presentation. Jewelry is minimal – a delicate necklace rests against her skin, adding a touch of refinement without overwhelming the overall impression.
The background is deliberately subdued, consisting of muted tones of green and grey, with hints of drapery suggesting an interior setting. A partially visible ornate chair frame in the upper right corner reinforces the sense of wealth and status. The lack of detailed background elements directs focus entirely on the subject herself.
Subtleties within the portrait suggest a complexity beyond mere representation of social standing. The slight downturn of her lips, combined with the directness of her gaze, hints at an underlying sadness or introspection. This is not a display of exuberant joy but rather a carefully constructed image of dignified composure. The muted color palette and restrained ornamentation contribute to this sense of quiet melancholy. It’s possible that the artist intended to convey more than just physical likeness; perhaps a suggestion of inner character or even a subtle commentary on the burdens associated with her position within society.

The overall effect is one of controlled elegance, tempered by an undercurrent of introspection and hinting at a life lived within strict social boundaries.