Michele Gordigiani (Florence 1835-1909), Young Pompeian Girl, 1886

Oil on canvas, 82 x 86 cm, signed lower right "M. Gordigiani/1886"
Dimensions with frame: 122 x 126 cm.

The painting depicts a portrait of a young woman in ancient dress. The Roman tunic covering the girl and the ribbon holding her hair, so common in this genre of historical paintings, are distinctive elements of Neo-Pompeian painting, which was very popular in the second half of the 19th century.
The girl holds an elegant bronze casket, displayed with satisfaction, as if it contained something very special.

Gordigiani, a highly skilled and highly regarded portraitist, portrays a female figure with delicate features and timeless grace.

The painting is enhanced by a refined, richly decorated gilded wooden frame.