Madame Philippe Panon Desbassayns de Richemont (Jeanne Eglé Mourgue, 1778–1855) and Her Son, Eugène (1800–1859)

"Madame Philippe Panon Desbassayns de Richemont (Jeanne Eglé Mourgue, 1778–1855) and Her Son, Eugène (1800–1859)" is a portrait painted by Marie Guillelmine Benoist in 1802. The work depicts Jeanne Eglé Mourgue, the wife of Philippe Panon Desbassayns de Richemont, alongside her son Eugène. Benoist was a prominent French painter known for her portraits and her role as one of the few female artists in the early 19th century. The painting exemplifies the neoclassical style prevalent during this period, characterized by its clarity of form and restrained color palette. The intimate portrayal of mother and child reflects the growing emphasis on familial bonds in art during this era. The specific circumstances surrounding the commission of the painting are unknown. The work is significant for its representation of women in art and the evolving role of motherhood in society. It is currently housed in a public collection, although the exact location may vary.

The painting "Madame Philippe Panon Desbassayns de Richemont and Her Son, Eugène" by Marie Guillelmine Benoist features a seated woman and her young son. The mother is depicted in a white dress with a high waistline, indicative of the fashion of the early 19th century, and she is adorned with a blue sash. Her expression is serene and maternal, conveying a sense of intimacy and connection with her child. The son, dressed in a light-colored outfit, stands beside her, looking up with a gentle expression. The background is a soft, neutral tone that enhances the figures' prominence. The use of light and shadow creates depth, highlighting the textures of the fabrics and the softness of the skin. The composition is balanced, with the figures positioned centrally, drawing the viewer's attention to their relationship. The overall color palette is muted, with subtle contrasts that evoke a sense of warmth and tenderness. The painting exemplifies the neoclassical style, characterized by its emphasis on clarity and idealized forms.