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Portrait of a Woman, 1638-39. Creator: Guido Reni
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Portrait of a Woman, 1638-39. Creator: Guido Reni
Portrait of a Woman, 1638-39 [Also known as Artemisia or Lady with a Lapis Lazuli Bowl]. The subject may represent Artemisia II of Caria (d.350 BC) wife of Mausolus, the governor of Caria in Asia Minor. After the death of her husband, she mixed his ashes in liquid which she drank, making herself a living tomb. The story was used as a symbol of a widows devotion to her husbands memory
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Media ID 20772724
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Ashes Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery Birmingham Museum Art Gallery Birmingham Museums And Art Gallery Birmingham Museums Trust Bowl Grido Reni Guid Reni Guiddo Reni Guide Reni Guido Reni Guidop Reni Looking Up Pious Reni Guido Widow
EDITORS COMMENTS
This portrait, titled "Portrait of a Woman, 1638-39" created by the renowned artist Guido Reni, offers a glimpse into the enigmatic life of an extraordinary woman. Also known as Artemisia or Lady with a Lapis Lazuli Bowl, this painting is believed to depict Artemisia II of Caria (d. 350 BC), wife of Mausolus, the governor of Caria in Asia Minor. Artemisia's story is one of profound devotion and mourning. After her husband's untimely demise, she chose to honor his memory in an unconventional way - by mixing his ashes with liquid and drinking it herself. This act transformed her into a living tomb; symbolizing the depth of love and loyalty that widows can possess. Guido Reni masterfully captures the essence of this pious widow through his brushstrokes. The subject gazes upwards with an expression that exudes both strength and vulnerability simultaneously. Her eyes reflect sorrow but also determination as she upholds her marital vows even after death has separated them. The vibrant colors used in this artwork bring vitality to the scene while highlighting the woman's striking features and ornate attire. The lapis lazuli bowl held delicately in her hands adds an element of mystery and symbolism to the composition. Displayed at Birmingham Museum Art Gallery under Birmingham Museums Trust, this seventeenth-century masterpiece continues to captivate viewers with its unusual narrative and exceptional artistic execution. It serves as a testament not only to
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