After Charles Landelle – "Femme Pensive"
Oil on Canvas | 19th Century

A captivating composition inspired by the works of Charles Landelle, Femme Pensive portrays a contemplative woman dressed in red and white, her head gently resting on her clasped hands in a prayer-like gesture. Set against a dark background, the figure’s luminous skin tones serve as the focal point, drawing the viewer’s eye to her serene expression. The painting demonstrates the artist’s mastery of chiaroscuro, evoking a sense of quiet introspection and emotional depth.

Dimensions: Sight: 22 x 18.5 in; Frame: 29.25 x 24.25 in
Condition: Overall good condition; craquelure present; some small areas of inpainting in the background around the hair and in the clothing; wear to the frame.

About the Artist:
Charles Zacharie Landelle (1821–1908) was a celebrated French painter known for his refined portraits and historical compositions. Trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris under Paul Delaroche and Ary Scheffer, Landelle gained recognition for his religious and allegorical paintings, earning multiple awards at the Paris Salon. His work was highly regarded by royalty, with pieces acquired by both King Louis-Philippe and Napoleon III. Later in his career, he developed a passion for Orientalist subjects, traveling extensively through Morocco, Egypt, and Algeria, where he captured the vibrancy of North African culture.

A beautifully rendered homage to Landelle’s artistic legacy, Femme Pensive embodies the elegance and emotional sensitivity that defined his work.