Odalisque near the Window by Konstantin Razumov

A particularly vibrant tribute to sculptural beauty and Oriental theatricality of the last century, the composition entitled “Odalisque near the Window” illustrates the aesthetic versatility of the famous painter Konstantin Razumov. The work belongs to the figurative movement celebrating the female nude in an ornamental architectural setting. The luminous and mysterious atmosphere surrounding the model exudes poetic and exotic charm of great intensity.

Presented from behind in a close vertical frame, a slender young woman holds a large carmine red veil above her raised head with sovereign and delicate grace. Her bare back presents contours of perfect delicacy, underlined at the waist by a golden ornamental belt set with gleaming pendants. She wears a feathery pink and red skirt with sparkling reflections falling to the floor. Her braided reddish hair is embellished with a precious silver and pearlescent pearl tiara. In the background, natural light filters through the lattice mashrabiya of a Moorish arch with meticulously carved arabesques.

Konstantin Razumov confirms here all his virtuosity in the alliance of anatomical realism and decorative detail. His brilliant treatment of light passing through carved stone and jewelry reflections attests to quite exceptional executing technique.