Comtesse de la Châtre (Marie Charlotte Louise Perrette Aglaé Bontemps, 1762–1848)

Elisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun

Created:
Movement:
1789
Rococo
key Notes:
Aristocratic Elegance, Neoclassical Portraiture
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Dimensions:
45 x 34 1/2 in. (114.3 x 87.6 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Comtesse de la Châtre" is a portrait painted by Elisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun in 1789. The subject, Marie Charlotte Louise Perrette Aglaé Bontemps, was a prominent figure in French society. Vigée Le Brun was known for her ability to capture the elegance and personality of her sitters, particularly women of the aristocracy. The painting exemplifies the Rococo style, characterized by its lightness, grace, and vibrant color palette. Vigée Le Brun's technique includes soft brushwork and a focus on the sitter's attire, which reflects the fashion of the late 18th century. The work is significant as it showcases the artist's skill in portraiture and her status as one of the leading female artists of her time. The current location of the painting is unknown.

Description of the work:

"Comtesse de la Châtre" is an oil on canvas portrait by Elisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun, created in 1789. The composition features the subject, Marie Charlotte Louise Perrette Aglaé Bontemps, in a three-quarter pose, exuding elegance and poise. The use of soft, naturalistic colors enhances the delicate features of the comtesse, while her attire, characterized by a flowing white gown adorned with intricate lace, reflects the fashion of the late 18th century. Vigée Le Brun employs a subtle play of light and shadow to create depth, particularly in the rendering of the comtesse's face and hands. The background is a muted landscape that complements the figure without detracting from her prominence. The overall effect conveys a sense of grace and refinement, characteristic of Vigée Le Brun's portraiture.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Comtesse de la Châtre (Marie Charlotte Louise Perrette Aglaé Bontemps, 1762–1848)