Ursula Mnishek Dmitry Levitsky (Levitzky) (1735-1822)
Dmitry Levitsky – Ursula Mnishek
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Painter: Dmitry Levitsky (Levitzky)
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Date painted 1782 The canvas is in the collection of the State Tretyakov Gallery. The outstanding master of portrait painting painted the portrait of a secular beauty while at the height of his skill, in his years of highest fame. The niece of Polish King Stanislav, a maid of honor and then lady of state of Catherine II, and a real showgirl, Ursula Mniszek, looks out at the viewer. Contemporaries noted her sharp mind, education, thorough readiness, skillful conversation, excellent literary and artistic abilities. The portrait is made in an oval, which is not typical for the painting Levitsky in this genre.
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Description of the painting "Portrait of Ursula Mnishek" by Dmitry Levitsky
Date painted 1782 The canvas is in the collection of the State Tretyakov Gallery.
The outstanding master of portrait painting painted the portrait of a secular beauty while at the height of his skill, in his years of highest fame.
The niece of Polish King Stanislav, a maid of honor and then lady of state of Catherine II, and a real showgirl, Ursula Mniszek, looks out at the viewer. Contemporaries noted her sharp mind, education, thorough readiness, skillful conversation, excellent literary and artistic abilities.
The portrait is made in an oval, which is not typical for the painting Levitsky in this genre. Amazing skill of the painter: the picture looks like an amazing cameo - to such an extent masterly "hidden" brushstrokes here.
The shining satin, the starched stiff lace, the thickly powdered high wig, the bright blush - every detail delights by its natural execution, bringing the picture closer to photography in quality.
In depicting the human flesh, the artist achieves unimaginable perfection - using special artistic techniques, he achieves a perfectly even, matte skin tone of the aristocrat, delightfully smooth transition from light to darkened areas.
Ursula Mnishek looks from her portrait with a coldly polite, slightly haughty look. The lady of the world smiles slightly, but her facial expression is more a tribute to simple courtesy than genuine affability. Her pale eyes are cool, her gaze is direct but perfectly clear, without the slightest hint of mystery or underlying emotion. Her aristocratic upbringing and her long stay at court have probably taught her to skilfully conceal her true feelings and moods.
A peculiar mystery of the portrait can be considered its strange attraction: looking carefully at the image, the viewer gradually begins to penetrate the sympathy for the secular lady, forgiving her secrecy and strictly dosed politeness.
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Here we see a delicate rendering of skin tones, suggesting a youthful complexion despite the implied maturity conveyed by her expression. Her eyes are large and appear somewhat shadowed, contributing to the overall sense of introspection. A faint blush graces her cheeks, adding a touch of vitality to the otherwise subdued palette.
The elaborate hairstyle, characteristic of the period, dominates the upper portion of the frame. The voluminous coiffure is rendered with meticulous detail, showcasing the artist’s skill in capturing texture and light. It serves not only as an aesthetic element but also as a marker of social status and fashionable trends.
Her clothing consists of a low-cut gown with delicate lace detailing at the neckline and sleeves. The fabric appears soft and flowing, clinging gently to her form. A draped shawl or wrap in shades of green is casually arranged around her shoulders, adding depth and visual interest to the composition. The color choice introduces a contrasting element against the predominantly warm tones of the dress and skin.
The background is dark and indistinct, deliberately blurred to keep focus on the subject. This technique isolates the woman within the frame, enhancing her presence and creating an intimate atmosphere.
Subtly, the painting conveys a sense of quiet dignity and perhaps even vulnerability. The slight downward tilt of her head and the softness in her gaze suggest a contemplative nature. There is a restrained elegance to her posture and attire, indicative of a woman accustomed to refinement and social grace. While the elaborate hairstyle and luxurious fabrics denote wealth and status, the overall impression is one of understated sophistication rather than ostentatious display. The artist seems intent on capturing not just a likeness but also an essence – a glimpse into the inner life of the portrayed individual.