Mid-Century Oil Portrait – Young Woman in Blue Blouse, Realist Canvas, 24″

A quietly compelling mid-century oil portrait of a dark-haired young woman wearing a lustrous periwinkle blouse. Soft, natural light models her face against a charcoal ground, capturing that moment between adolescent resolve and adult poise. The painter’s brushwork — loose in the fabric, tighter at the features — recalls academic studio practice of the 1940s-50s and gives the sitter a timeless dignity.

Painted directly on stretched linen (no visible signature on the front; please see reverse), the work is ready for a floater frame or can be displayed as-is for a fresh, atelier-wall look.

Details & Features

• Medium: Oil on stretched linen canvas
• Era: Mid-20th century (c. 1940s-60s)
• Style: Academic realism with subtle impressionist edges
• Palette: Navy, slate, periwinkle, and warm skin tones play against a deep charcoal background
• Back: Tacked on original keyed stretcher; faint pencil notations but no clear artist name

Measurements
Approximately 20 inches tall × 16 inches wide 

Condition
Overall very good vintage condition. Surface is stable with light craquelure in the darker pigments and a few small edge scuffs (see detail photos). No punctures or overpaint detected under raking light. Canvas remains taut; corners square.

Styling Notes

• Modern contrast: Float-frame in maple and let it anchor a gallery wall of abstract prints — the realistic face becomes a focal pause among gestural marks.
• Library ambience: Lean on a mantel beside brass candlesticks and leather bound volumes for a classic study vibe.
• Bedroom serenity: The cooler blue blouse harmonises with flax linens and charcoal throws for a restful color story.