Portrait of a Woman 

Giovanni Costa, an Italian painter born in 1833, is best known for his landscapes and genre scenes. This portrait, however, showcases his skill in capturing the subtle emotions of a woman. The subject, with her captivating smile and playful gaze, is holding a mask, hinting at a theatrical setting or a playful persona. The meticulous detail in the woman's attire, the luxurious fabrics, and the rich, almost theatrical background further enhance the air of mystery and intrigue surrounding the subject.