The artwork entitled “Madame Baltard and her daughter, Paule” is a portrait crafted by the acclaimed artist Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres in the year 1836. Utilizing pencil on paper as his medium, Ingres delivers a representation that embodies the principles of the Neoclassical movement. The genre of this piece is a portrait, highlighting the intimate capture of human subjects. Currently, the artwork resides within a private collection. Ingres is known for his precise draftsmanship, which is evident in this piece.
In the portrait, our gaze is met by Madame Baltard, who is depicted with a gentle and reserved demeanor. Her eyes softly engage with the viewer, while her attire reflects the understated elegance typical of the era. She holds her daughter Paule, who is tenderly cradled in her arms. Paule, adorned with a bonnet, gazes out with an innocent and curious expression. The background, lightly sketched, suggests an outdoor setting, providing a serene atmosphere to this maternal scene. The masterful pencil work renders fine details in the subjects’ faces and clothing, endowing the artwork with a striking realism despite the simplicity of its medium. The artwork stands as a testament to Ingres’ skill in capturing the essence of his subjects and the ideals of Neoclassical portraiture.