Madame Edmond Cavé (Marie-Élisabeth Blavot, born 1810)

Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres

Created:
Movement:
1839
Neoclassicism
key Notes:
Neoclassical elegance, meticulous detail
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Dimensions:
16 x 12 7/8 in. (40.6 x 32.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Madame Edmond Cavé" is a portrait painted by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres between 1831 and 1834. The subject of the painting is Marie-Élisabeth Blavot, the wife of Edmond Cavé, a prominent Parisian banker. Ingres was known for his neoclassical style and meticulous attention to detail, which is evident in this work. The painting showcases Ingres's ability to convey both the physical likeness and the character of his subjects. The composition features a seated figure adorned in a white dress, with a dark background that emphasizes her presence. Ingres's use of line and form reflects his academic training and his interest in classical ideals. The portrait is part of the collection at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between Ingres and the Cavé family remain unknown.

Description of the work:

"Madame Edmond Cavé" is a portrait by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres, created circa 1831–34 using oil on canvas. The painting depicts Marie-Élisabeth Blavot, the wife of Edmond Cavé, in a seated pose. She is dressed in a white gown with intricate detailing, which contrasts with the dark background, emphasizing her figure. Ingres employs a smooth, polished technique that highlights the texture of the fabric and the softness of her skin. The subject's gaze is direct and engaging, conveying a sense of confidence and poise. The composition is characterized by a balanced arrangement, with the figure positioned slightly off-center, allowing for a dynamic interplay of space. Ingres's use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figure, while the subtle color palette contributes to the overall elegance of the portrait. The work exemplifies Ingres's neoclassical style, marked by precision and an idealized representation of beauty.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madame Edmond Cavé (Marie-Élisabeth Blavot, born 1810)