The artwork titled “Josephine-Eleonore-Marie-Pauline de Galard de Brassac de Bearn, Princesse de Broglie” was painted by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres in 1853. This oil on canvas embodies the neoclassical art movement and is a portrait genre painting measuring approximately 121.3 x 90.8 cm. Currently, this exemplary piece resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, NY, USA.
In the artwork, the subject is portrayed with a serene and composed demeanor, seated against a subdued backdrop that suggests the interior of an aristocratic residence. The Princess’ visage is marked by a gentle gaze which engages the viewer with a combination of reserved grace and noble presence. Her hair is styled in a manner typical of the period and adorned with delicate accessories.
She is dressed in a sumptuous blue gown, rich in color and decorated with intricate lace detail, masterfully rendered to capture the luxurious textures of the fabric. The dress is complemented by the soft gold tones of the velvet upholstery that she casually leans on, creating a harmonious palette. Distinctive jewelry, including a locket at her neck and multiple bracelets that adorn her wrists, accentuates her aristocratic status as well as the refined elegance characteristic of Ingres’ portraits. The attention to detail throughout the artwork, from the individual jewels to the folds of the gown, exemplify Ingres’ skill in capturing the opulence of the era’s high society.
