Portrait of Grand Duchess Maria Nikolayevna 1857

Franz Xaver Winterhalter's 1857 portrait of Grand Duchess Maria Nikolayevna, housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, captures the elegance and grace of the Russian royal. The Duchess, dressed in a flowing white gown adorned with black lace, stands against a backdrop of hazy landscape. The intricate details of her dress, including the red ribbon and pearl necklace, highlight the craftsmanship of the artist, showcasing the grandeur of the Imperial court. This piece is a fine example of Winterhalter's signature style, renowned for its romanticism and meticulous attention to detail.