Portrait of Madame X

Portrait of Madame X by John Singer Sargent

Portrait of Madame X, painted by John Singer Sargent in 1884, is an iconic example of late 19th-century portraiture, executed in oil on canvas. The work is renowned for its bold composition and the striking depiction of Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau, a Parisian socialite known for her beauty and style. Sargent's portrayal of Madame X was initially met with controversy due to its provocative pose and the subject's daring attire, which challenged the conservative norms of the time.

The painting's reception at the Paris Salon of 1884 was scandalous, leading to a temporary setback in Sargent's career in France. However, it ultimately solidified his reputation as a master portraitist, prompting him to relocate to England, where he achieved great success. Sargent's innovative approach to portraiture, characterized by his use of light and brushwork, has had a lasting impact on the art world, influencing generations of artists.

Portrait of Madame X

Portrait of Madame X, painted by John Singer Sargent in 1884, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the artist's mastery of portraiture through its striking depiction of Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau, a Parisian socialite. The painting is renowned for its bold composition and the controversial reception it received due to the subject's provocative pose and attire, which challenged the conventions of the time.