This exquisite mid-18th-century oil painting by Austrian artist Johann Michael Millitz (1725-1779) depicts a young lady wearing a beautiful pale pink gown, embellished with a silk rose. Millitz worked extensively for the Austrian Imperial Court and was at the heart of the Habsburg monarchy.

This demure young lady is dressed to impress in a voluminous gown broadened significantly by panniers, which were fashionable undergarments often constructed of linen and cane. These originated in Spain during the 17th century and were popularised by Diego Velázquez’s iconic portraiture. The term ‘panniers’ stems from the French term for wicker baskets, which were draped over a pack animal. Perhaps this represents how the ladies felt when carrying them around all day!

In addition, her attire is further enhanced with lace sleeve ruffles and ribbons; it’s the height of decadence, and she’s almost certainly dressed for court appearances. During the 18th century, aristocratic women were encouraged/forced to adopt an ideal posture via their dancing masters and clothing to convey their social status. Marie Antoinette, who also hailed from Austria, wears a spectacular example in a portrait by Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun, completed in 1783. One would need a rather spacious palace to accommodate such an outfit, let alone walk around in it.

Marie Antoinette was known to Johann Michael Millitz, who completed two known portraits of her. One, a work in oils, was produced in 1770, presumably following her departure for France. Millitz became the painter for the Austrian Imperial Court when he succeeded his tutor, Martin van Meytens (1695-1770). As such, he undertook numerous commissions and was treasured by Empress Maria Theresa, as demonstrated by a letter she penned to Archduchess Maria Christina when travelling with Millitz.

“January 25, 1776. My dear daughter. Everything you tell me about your pleasant situation gives me real pleasure. [...]. What does Millitz say, does he enjoy some beautiful paintings, sculptures?”

A portrait of Maria Theresa, completed by Millitz, is held at the National Gallery in Budapest and depicts her as a widow.

The skilful handling and meticulous attention to detail of this accomplished Viennese portraitist is evident in our piece, which dates to 1764. It’s conceivable that, given her attire, the sitter is connected to the Imperial Court of Austria and therefore associated with Marie Antoinette as a child. The two ladies appear to be of a similar age.

Inscribed with "M. Millitz pinxit 1764" on the reverse and held in a later frame.

Learn more about Johann Michael Millitz in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 31” x 40” / 79cm x 102cm
Year of creation: 1764
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed with "M. Millitz pinxit 1764" on the reverse.
Provenance: Auction, Vienna, 1993 (£4,020) / Auction, Vienna, 2017 (£4,263) / Private collection, Germany.
Condition: Cleaned. Canvas relined. Fine craquelure throughout. The paint layer is stable. Later stretcher. Frame in excellent condition. 
Artist’s auction maximum: £44,424 for ‘Archduchess Marie Antoinette, Dauphine of France (1770)’, Oil on canvas, Munich, 20 March 2024.
Our reference: BRV2162