Madame Jean-Baptiste Nicolet (Anne Antoinette Desmoulins, 1743–1817)

"Madame Jean-Baptiste Nicolet (Anne Antoinette Desmoulins, 1743–1817)" is a portrait painted by Jean-Baptiste Greuze in the late 1780s. The work exemplifies Greuze's ability to capture the emotional depth and individuality of his subjects. Anne Antoinette Desmoulins was the wife of Jean-Baptiste Nicolet, a prominent figure in French society. The painting reflects the Rococo style, characterized by its delicate colors and intimate portrayal of the sitter. Greuze was known for his focus on moral themes and the depiction of domestic life, which is evident in this work. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between the artist and the sitter remain unknown. The painting is part of the collection at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lyon, France.

"Madame Jean-Baptiste Nicolet" is an oil on wood painting by Jean-Baptiste Greuze, created in the late 1780s. The portrait depicts Anne Antoinette Desmoulins, characterized by her elegant attire and poised demeanor. Greuze employs a soft color palette dominated by warm tones, enhancing the subject's skin tone and the delicate fabric of her dress. The composition features a three-quarter view, allowing for a detailed representation of her facial features and expression. The background is subtly rendered, focusing attention on the subject while providing a sense of depth. The use of light and shadow creates a gentle modeling of the figure, emphasizing her graceful posture. Greuze's brushwork is refined, contributing to the overall sense of realism and intimacy in the portrayal. The painting exemplifies the artist's ability to convey both the social status and the personality of the sitter through meticulous detail and emotive expression.