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Title: Profile of a Young Fiancée (also known as La scapigliata)

Artist: Leonardo da Vinci

Medium: Oil, earth, and white lead pigments on panel

Dimensions: Approximately 27 cm × 21 cm (10.6 in × 8.3 in)

Date: c. 1508

Location: Galleria Nazionale di Parma, Italy

"Profile of a Young Fiancée" is a remarkable rendering of a young woman’s head and shoulders, caught in a moment of serene contemplation. Leonardo da Vinci's expertise in capturing the subtleties of human expression and beauty is clearly evident in this painting.

- Composition:
The composition revolves around the young woman’s side profile, oriented towards the viewer’s right. She appears to be emerging from a dark, undefined background, accentuating her calm and ethereal presence. This minimal backdrop keeps the focus squarely on her delicate features.

- Hair:
Her hair flows gently down her neck, rendered with da Vinci's characteristic sfumato technique. The curls are loose and unkempt (“scapigliata” means disheveled in Italian), giving her a natural, almost ethereal appearance.

- Face and Expression:
Her face, softly highlighted, exhibits a dreamy, introspective look. Her downcast eyes and the gentle curve of her lips suggest a sense of quiet thoughtfulness or gentle melancholy. The subtle shading around her eyes and cheeks enhances the sculptural quality of her face.

- Technique:
Leonardo’s use of the sfumato technique—blurring lines and colors to create a soft transition between tones—is masterfully executed. This technique helps to imbue the young woman’s visage with a lifelike quality, appearing almost as if she’s surrounded by a hazy, serene atmosphere.

- Clothing:
The rendering of her attire is minimal, with the focus kept on her face and hair. What little can be seen of her clothing lacks detailing, further emphasizing the primary elements of her profile.

Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) was an Italian polymath of the High Renaissance who epitomized the Renaissance humanist ideal. Renowned for his masterpieces such as "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper," Leonardo's contributions span art, science, engineering, anatomy, and more.

- Location and Provenance:
The painting currently resides at the Galleria Nazionale di Parma in Italy.

- Artistic Context:
"Profile of a Young Fiancée" (or "La scapigliata") is believed to have been created around 1508, a period when Leonardo was deeply engaged in exploring the intricacies of human anatomy and expression. This work fits into Leonardo’s continued interest in capturing the inner life and emotional states of his subjects, an interest that permeates many of his portraits.

- Historical Significance:
This piece is often celebrated for its unfinished quality, which allows viewers to glimpse Leonardo’s technique and thought process. The delicate execution of the young woman’s face contrasts with the sketch-like quality of her hair and clothing, showcasing Leonardo’s ability to convey depth and emotion with minimal detailed input.

- Artistic Movements:
As a master of the High Renaissance, Leonardo was instrumental in developing the techniques and aesthetics that defined the era. His use of light, shadow, and anatomical precision has influenced countless artists since. "Profile of a Young Fiancée" exemplifies his profound understanding of the human form and his innovative approach to portraiture.

- Unfinished Nature:
One of the most intriguing aspects of "Profile of a Young Fiancée" is its unfinished nature, which provides valuable insight into Leonardo's artistic process. The contrast between the highly refined areas and the more roughly sketched portions speaks to his meticulous attention to detail and his exploratory approach to art.

- Expression and Emotion:
The painting is often noted for its ability to convey a rich, emotional landscape within a simple, seemingly tranquil portrait. The young woman’s expression combines contemplation with a softness that seems to draw the viewer into her private, internal world.

- Influence on Portraiture:
This painting continues to be a touchstone for discussions about portraiture in art, particularly in how artists capture the psychological complexity of their subjects. Leonardo's technique in this work, especially his application of sfumato, has influenced countless portrait artists over the centuries.

In summary, "Profile of a Young Fiancée" by Leonardo da Vinci is a poignant example of the artist’s exceptional skill in capturing delicate human emotions and expressions. It stands as a testament to his pioneering techniques and his enduring impact on the world of art.