Madame Sophie de France (1734–1782)

François Hubert Drouais

Created:
Movement:
1762
Rococo
key Notes:
Regal portraiture, Rococo elegance
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Dimensions:
25 5/8 x 20 7/8 in. (65.1 x 53 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Madame Sophie de France (1734–1782)" is a portrait painted by François Hubert Drouais in 1762. The subject, Madame Sophie, was the daughter of King Louis XV of France and his wife, Queen Marie Leszczyńska. Drouais was known for his ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects, particularly members of the French aristocracy. The painting reflects the Rococo style, characterized by its elegance and decorative qualities. Madame Sophie is depicted in a lavish gown, which signifies her royal status. The background features a serene landscape, enhancing the portrait's overall grace. This work is significant in the context of 18th-century French portraiture, illustrating the cultural and social dynamics of the time. The current location of the painting is unknown.

Description of the work:

"Madame Sophie de France (1734–1782)" by François Hubert Drouais, created in 1762, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the likeness of Madame Sophie, the daughter of King Louis XV of France. The composition features her seated in an elegant pose, adorned in a lavish gown that reflects the fashion of the French court during the 18th century. The color palette is characterized by soft pastels, with delicate blues and pinks that enhance her youthful appearance. Drouais employs a smooth application of paint, creating a luminous quality in the fabric and skin tones. The background is a subtle, muted landscape that provides a serene context for the subject, allowing her figure to stand out prominently. The artist's attention to detail is evident in the intricate rendering of the lace and embroidery on her attire, as well as the gentle expression on her face, which conveys a sense of grace and poise. The overall composition exemplifies the Rococo style, emphasizing elegance and refinement in both the subject and the execution.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madame Sophie de France (1734–1782)