Circle of Maria Giovanna Clementi (Piedmontese, 1692–1761) – Portrait of a Noble Woman
Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 95 x 76 cm
Condition Report: Overall good condition

Description:
A refined and elegant portrait attributed to the circle of Maria Giovanna Clementi, a distinguished Piedmontese portraitist of the 18th century. The noblewoman is depicted seated in a slight semi-profile, her face turned toward the viewer with an engaging gaze. She wears a dark sienna dress, its richness softened by delicate white bows adorning the sleeves. Draped over her left shoulder, a black cape with fur trim adds depth and movement to the composition. The painting is executed in soft, luminous hues that contrast sharply with the nearly solid black background, accentuating the subject’s presence. Resting one hand gracefully on the corner of a table, she is accompanied by a white flower, subtly echoing the lighter tones in her attire and complexion. Her other hand, posed in a spontaneous gesture, introduces a sense of dynamism to the otherwise poised and dignified composition.

About the Artist:
Maria Giovanna Clementi (1692–1761), also known as La Clementina, was a renowned Italian portraitist active in the court of Savoy. Born in Turin, she was the daughter of surgeon Giovanni Pietro Giuseppe Bussano and Maria Cristina Ausineti. She trained under court painter Giovanni Battista Curlando, who encouraged her to specialize in portraiture. Clementi became celebrated for her ability to capture aristocratic elegance with a delicate yet precise approach to texture, fabric, and light. Her works remain admired for their refinement, subtle color palettes, and masterful execution of noble subjects.