Famous Paintings of Women You Should Know

Women have been one of the primary subjects of fine art since the beginning of art history. Whether self-portraits or muses, paintings of women have captivated viewers for centuries. We’ve rounded up some of the most famous paintings of women from renowned artists. Discover the perfect female-centric portrait for your home, or simply reintroduce yourself to these undeniable masterpieces.

Portrait of Dora Maar by Pablo Picasso

The famous Portrait of Dora Maar solidified Ms. Maar as Picasso’s muse – but she was so much more than that. Dora Maar was an artist in her own right, and she captivated Picasso with her talent. While the surrealist movement was primarily made up of men, she made a name for herself as an ambitious creative who wouldn’t take no for an answer. While this portrait is very much a two-dimensional representation of Maar, it’s one of Picasso’s most famous pieces.

Discover our women wall art collection >>

Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the Mona Lisa. Everyone knows this famous portrait by Leonardo da Vinci, which now serves as the number one attraction in the Louvre, Paris. The Mona Lisa is famous for many reasons, but one of which is the mystery surrounding the portrait. Her enigmatic smile is undeniably captivating, and her androgynous look has made some historians believe it was actually a self-portrait. However, some believe that it was a portrait of Lisa del Giocondo, a member of a noble Italian family. The unique sfumato technique has been studied for centuries.  

View our catalog of beautiful women wall art >>

A Mermaid by John William Waterhouse

This ethereal portrait by John William Waterhouse is also full of mystery. Most historians believe this portrait was heavily influenced by Greek mythology, giving a dark twist to this otherwordly woman. Mermaids and sirens lured men to their deaths with their sweet song, and Waterhouse was famously fascinated by these seductive creatures. This mermaid in particular appears lonely, giving an almost wistful appearance to the painting. The emotion in this piece is complex and the painting itself is both delicate and deep.

Explore our collection of women artwork >>

The Seasons 1897 by Alphonse Maria Mucha

The father of the Art Nouveau movement, Alphonse Mucha was a Czech artist who created whimsical lithographs and paintings. The Seasons was painted as a poster for the play Gismonda starring Sarah Bernhardt. This painting was highly influential, as it introduced Paris to the Art Nouveau movement which became a huge part of the city’s art and architecture scene during the turn of the century. The four women pictured represent the four seasons, and each is posed in a graceful yet provocative way. There is also a notable influence from Japanese woodcut art.

Find the perfect woman-inspired painting >>

Woman at a Window by Caspar David Friedrich

Caspar David Friedrich was a German Romantic artist who painted many figures from the back. Woman at a Window was a tribute to his wife, showcasing his own studio in Dresden. There is something about the painting that triggers a feeling of yearning, as if the viewer wants to know what the woman is longing for as she gazes out at the landscape beyond the window. The quiet introspection of the scene evokes a deep sense of solitude, emphasizing the emotional connection between the figure and the world outside.

Browse prints inspired by women >>

Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer

This is one of the most recognizable paintings of a woman. However, it was not meant to be a portrait. It was known as a “tronie” which was a 17th century Dutch technique that showed a head with a specific facial expression. Like the Mona Lisa, it is heavily debated who the subject really is. In fact, it is possible that the Girl with a Pearl Earring by Joannes Vermeer was not a real girl at all, but rather, a figment of Vermeer’s imagination. The painting’s allure lies in its ambiguity, leaving viewers to wonder about the identity and story behind the girl.

See our selection of portraits of women >>

Find the Perfect Painting of a Woman for Your Home

Throughout art history, women have consistently been a central subject, inspiring countless iconic works that capture their beauty, strength, and complexity. These paintings not only showcase the artistic talent of their creators but also offer a glimpse into different cultural and historical perspectives. The portrayal of women in art invites viewers to reflect on themes of identity, emotion, and storytelling. Whether viewed as muses, symbols, or independent figures, women have played a pivotal role in shaping the art world. These timeless works continue to captivate and inspire, offering a unique blend of visual beauty and deeper meaning. Ultimately, they remain essential pieces in the rich tapestry of fine art.

View the complete women wall art collection >>