Portrait of a Woman and an Enslaved Servant

"Portrait of a Woman and an Enslaved Servant" is a painting by French artist Nicolas de Largillierre, created in 1696. The work exemplifies the artist's skill in portraiture and his ability to convey social status and identity. The painting features a woman of high social standing alongside an enslaved servant, highlighting the social hierarchies of 17th-century France. Largillierre's use of color and light enhances the figures' presence and the textures of their clothing. The identities of the individuals depicted remain unknown, as does the specific context of the commission. This work reflects the complexities of race and class during the period, as well as the role of portraiture in asserting social status. The painting is part of the collection at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Dijon, France.

"Portrait of a Woman and an Enslaved Servant," created by Nicolas de Largillierre in 1696, is an oil on canvas painting that features a seated woman in an elegant gown, characterized by intricate detailing and rich colors. The woman's attire is adorned with lace and embellishments, reflecting the fashion of the late 17th century. Beside her stands an enslaved servant, depicted in a simpler garment, which contrasts with the opulence of the woman’s dress. The composition is balanced, with the figures positioned against a neutral background that emphasizes their presence. Largillierre's use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures, while the soft brushwork contributes to the overall realism of the portrait. The expressions of both figures convey a sense of dignity, with the woman looking directly at the viewer and the servant gazing slightly away, suggesting a complex social dynamic. The painting exemplifies the artist's skill in portraiture and his ability to capture the nuances of human relationships within the context of 17th-century French society.