Odalisque

Frederic Leighton composed this Odalisque in 1862, an oil on canvas measuring 90.8 x 45.7 cm. The work shows a young woman in flowing dress, holding a peacock feather fan in her left hand. Leighton drew inspiration from chambermaids employed in seraglios, the Turkish living quarters reserved for wives of Ottoman households.

Leighton (1830-1896) became a leading figure in the Victorian art establishment, serving as President of the Royal Academy from 1878. His classical and historical paintings showed the influence of Renaissance and Baroque masters. The Orientalism movement appealed to Victorian audiences fascinated by exotic, Eastern subjects.

The painting's rich colorful palette and detailed textile patterns demonstrate Leighton's technical mastery. An engraving by Lumb Stocks reproduced the image in 1876, spreading its popularity. The original remains in a private collection, though Leighton's other works can be seen at Leighton House Museum in London.