Emma Szoldas “Portrait of a Woman” – 19th/20th C. Hungarian Pastel

A refined pastel portrait by Hungarian artist Emma Szoldas (19th–20th Century), depicting a young woman with an introspective gaze and delicately rendered features. Szoldas’ skillful use of pastel brings a softness and luminosity to the sitter’s complexion, while the warm tones of the draped golden shawl add richness and depth to the composition. The work is signed beneath the mat and is mounted under glass with a neutral mat and a gilt frame.

Emma Szoldas was an accomplished Hungarian artist whose works reflect the academic traditions and romantic realism of Central Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her portraits are celebrated for their emotional resonance, sensitivity, and finely detailed craftsmanship. While her works rarely appear at auction, they remain valued for their artistic refinement and historical charm.

This piece, “Portrait of a Woman,” is a striking example of Szoldas’ mastery of pastel, capturing both the sitter’s natural beauty and the timeless elegance of the medium. It is an ideal acquisition for collectors of Central European portraiture or those seeking a statement artwork with classical appeal.

Condition:

Good overall condition. The pastel shows vibrant tones and remains well-preserved under glass. The frame exhibits scuffs and loss to the gilt finish in several areas, along with a minor chip to the lower section, none of which affect the artwork.

Dimensions:

• Artwork (sight): 20 x 16 inches (50.8 x 40.64 cm)
• Overall (framed): 30.75 x 26.5 inches