Study for the painting “The poor officer's widow'' 1836

This watercolor study by Peter Fendi, dated 1836, depicts a woman in a white bonnet. The intimate composition and loose, expressive brushstrokes are characteristic of Fendi's style. The study likely served as preparation for a larger painting titled "The Poor Officer's Widow," which was commissioned by Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I. The watercolor showcases Fendi's mastery of capturing the delicate nuances of human emotion, making it a fascinating glimpse into his artistic process.