Portrait of Emilia Morosini Zeltner 1852

Francesco Hayez painted this portrait of Emilia Morosini Zeltner, using oil paint on canvas. Hayez was a master of subtle gradations, and his portraiture is all about surfaces. Note how he renders the diaphanous black veil, achieved through delicate brushwork and the layering of thin glazes. The contrast between the veil and the solid black fabric of the dress is a testament to Hayez's technical skill. Oil paint can be blended and manipulated, to create an illusion of depth and texture, a skill honed through years of practice and academic training. There is a huge amount of artistic labor involved in the execution of such a painting, from the preparation of the canvas to the final varnishing. And while the painting itself may seem detached from questions of labor and class, it is important to remember that the production of art materials, like pigments and canvas, was itself tied to wider social and economic forces. By considering the materiality of this portrait, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and artistry that went into its making.