Portrait of the Italian singer Giuseppina Grassini (1773-1850) Antoine Calbet (1860-1944)

The drawing presents a woman in a full-length pose, viewed from the side. She stands with a slight turn towards the viewer, her gaze directed outward and slightly upward. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing her stature and creating a sense of dignified presence.
Here we see a figure dressed in attire indicative of an elevated social standing. A high-waisted white gown forms the foundation of her ensemble, accented by a dark jacket with wide lapels that fall gracefully across her shoulders. A large, elaborate hat adorned with floral details sits atop her head, its size and ornamentation suggesting wealth and status. She carries a walking stick in her left hand, which provides both support and contributes to an air of refined elegance. The right arm hangs loosely at her side, holding what appears to be a bouquet or collection of flowers.
The artist employed meticulous cross-hatching techniques throughout the drawing, creating tonal variations that define form and texture. This technique lends a sense of depth and realism to the depiction, while also contributing to an overall feeling of formality. The background is largely devoid of detail, which serves to isolate the subject and direct attention towards her figure and attire.
Subtleties in the woman’s expression suggest a complex inner life. While she maintains a composed demeanor, theres a hint of melancholy or introspection visible around her eyes. This nuanced portrayal moves beyond a simple representation of outward appearance, hinting at an underlying emotional depth. The flowers held in her hand could be interpreted as symbols of beauty and fragility, perhaps alluding to the transient nature of fame or fortune.
The overall impression is one of restrained elegance and quiet dignity. The drawing seems intended not merely as a likeness but as a portrayal of character – a woman of refinement, intelligence, and perhaps a touch of sadness.