Giacomo Ceruti

With an engaging slightly coy glance, the dark-haired woman looks out at the viewer as she protectively cradles her small dog. Most celebrated for depictions of ruffians and peasants, Giacomo Ceruti also excelled as painting idealized images of charming young women, like the present work. Set against a dark background, which offsets the woman's pale skin and near monochromatic attire, she possesses a psychological intensity that underscores the naturalistic manner in which the artist has rendered her attire and imbued her with a striking presence.