Associated with the Academic and Orientalist traditions, Lehmann perfectly executed a portrait of a young woman seated on a terrace overlooking a tranquil expanse of water. Through its refined technique, graceful composition, and exotic subject matter, the artwork exemplifies the fascination of the European artists with the 'Orients'. The painting shows a female figure who is seated slightly to one side while her face looks thoughtful and contemplating toward the viewers. The most striking aspects of the composition is her attire, her richly decorated blue garment adorned with golden floral and vine patterns looks luxurious. The bodice is trimmed with delicate ornamentation, while a translucent yellow veil partially covers her braided hair. The woman's large dark eyes and softly modeled skin convey a sense of beauty and serenity. During those times, European audiences were fascinated by the cultures of the Middle East, North Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean, and artists would depict such subjects as a symbol of mystery and beauty. Lehmann demonstrates exceptional technical skill in use of color and light; the cool blues of the attire contrast beautifully with the warm earthy tones of the terrace wall and the soft pink drapery behind the woman. The background is composed of blue water and a luminous blue sky that gradually shifts to peach shade. The carefully balanced arrangement reflects Lehmann's academic training and his admiration for classical ideals of beauty and proportion.
This image seems to me a rather calm and elegant portrait emphasizing the presence, look and character of the woman. She looks directly at the viewer which makes one feel that she is aware of the observation while her confident posture makes her look composed and collected. The blue and golden patterned fabric and white dress as well as the delicate head covering make the figure richer without distracting attention from her face. I particularly appreciate the opposition of the warm tones of her skin and clothes and the cold shades of the blue sea and sky in the background. The waterfront scene creates a sense of tranquility and dreaminess in this painting. Still, the title and exotic setting speak about the European cultural fascination with the "Orient" typical of the nineteenth century. For me, this painting embodies the concepts of beauty, cultural imagination and self-possession.
