Verification: 30793b9ef56f65e0

GIOVANNI PANEALBO attrib. to

PORTRAIT OF MARIA THERESA OF SAVOY,  COUNTESS OF ARTOIS, AS DIANA

GIOVANNI PANEALBO
Torino 1742 – 1815 Torino

Oil on canvas
63.5 x 53.6 cm / 25 x 21.1 inches, with frame 79.5 x 69.6 cm / 31.3 x 27.4 inches

PROVENANCE
France, private collection

The portrait of Maria Teresa of Savoy, Countess of Artois, attributed to Giovanni Panealbo, represents a refined and elegant example of late Baroque, where the artist's skill is evident in his subtle use of symbolism and allegory. The depiction of Maria Teresa in the guise of Diana — the goddess of the hunt and the moon — is a carefully considered choice, intended to highlight her virtue, purity, and strength, qualities often associated with the image of a bride in the 18th century. This symbolic approach indicates her preparation for marriage to Charles-Philippe, Count of Artois, the future Charles X of France, emphasizing the importance of this political union.

Giovanni Panealbo (1742–1815), though less renowned compared to the great masters of the 18th century, demonstrated remarkable skill and a deep understanding of Baroque and Classical principles. His portraits aimed not only to capture physical likeness but also to reveal the inner essence and social significance of the subjects depicted. Panealbo's ability to blend technical precision with allegorical content transformed his works into sophisticated narratives about political and familial ties. His work reflects the same clarity of thought and refinement of execution that characterize the art of painters like Van Dyck, whose style set the aesthetic and cultural standards for Europe's elite.

Maria Teresa of Savoy (1756–1805), daughter of King Victor Amadeus III and Maria Antonia of Bourbon-Spain, was a significant figure of her time, playing a crucial role in strengthening the dynastic ties between the houses of Savoy and Bourbon. Her marriage to Charles-Philippe was not merely a personal union but a strategic alliance that symbolized the importance and power of these two dynasties. Maria Teresa’s persona combined grace and dignity with a strong sense of duty to her family and state, enhancing her influence and stature within European royal circles.

One of the most expressive elements of this portrait is the jewelry that Maria Teresa wears, with a keen awareness of its symbolic meaning. The ornaments, reminiscent of the legendary pearl La Peregrina — a symbol of luxury and status at the Spanish court — reference her maternal heritage and her connection to Princess Maria Antonia of Bourbon-Spain. These intricately designed details function not merely as adornments but as symbols of her deep ties to the Spanish royal lineage, adding a layer of diplomatic and cultural significance to the portrait. Thus, Panealbo’s work becomes more than just the image of a noble lady; it is a complex visual document where each element of the composition deliberately underscores her dynastic heritage and political alliances, skillfully revealed through the allegorical language of art.

Base: Canvas

Epoque: XVIII century

Genre: Portrait

Genre: Allegory

School: French

School: Italian

Technic: Oil

See also