The artwork, titled “A Turkish Slave,” created by Parmigianino in 1533, is an oil painting on panel measuring 53 x 67 cm. The piece is a portrait that exemplifies the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement and is currently housed in the Parma National Gallery in Parma, Italy.
The artwork depicts a young woman adorned in what appears to be luxurious attire. Her hair is styled elaborately, indicative of the period’s fashion, and she wears an intricate garment with striped gold patterns. Her delicate complexion and the nuanced expression on her face demonstrate Parmigianino’s mastery in portraiture. The background is a muted, unobtrusive shade, bringing full focus to the subject’s serene yet slightly enigmatic visage. The overall composition reflects the Mannerist tendency towards elegance and artificiality, creating a poised and captivating image.
