Portrait of Madame X

John Singer Sargent

Created:

Movement:

1884

Realism

key Notes:

Elegant poise, Controversial allure

Dimensions:

234.95 cm × 109.86 cm

medium:

Oil on canvas

Difficulty:

Beginner

New game

story of the work:

"Portrait of Madame X," painted by John Singer Sargent in 1884, depicts Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau, a prominent Parisian socialite known for her beauty and distinctive style. The painting initially caused a scandal at the Paris Salon due to its provocative pose and the subject's bare shoulder, which led to Sargent altering the strap and ultimately relocating to London to continue his career.

Description of the work:

"Portrait of Madame X" by John Singer Sargent, measuring 234.95 cm by 109.86 cm, depicts a poised woman in profile, wearing a form-fitting black gown with jeweled straps, set against a muted, brownish background that accentuates her pale skin and elegant posture. The composition is marked by its dramatic use of light and shadow, emphasizing the sitter's aristocratic bearing and the gown's luxurious texture, while the overall verticality of the painting enhances the subject's statuesque presence.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Manually Sourced

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