The artwork “Madame Gonse” is an oil painting on canvas created by the distinguished artist Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres in 1852. It measures 73 by 62 centimeters and is rendered in the Neoclassicism style. This portrait is part of the genre of portraiture and is currently housed in the Musée Ingres in Montauban, France.
In the artwork, Madame Gonse is depicted with a serene and contemplative expression. Her gaze seems to engage the viewer directly, creating an intimate connection. Her attire is rich and elegant, signaling a status of refinement and sophistication typical of the time. She wears a dark gown adorned with intricate details and a vibrant red shawl with a ruffled collar, punctuating the overall somber palette with a burst of color. The delicate lace that frames her face and cascades from her bonnet to her chin adds an element of grace and luxury. Her poised hand gently touches her face, reflecting a gesture of contemplation or introspection. The dark background provides a stark contrast to the detailed rendering of her figure, further emphasizing the subject’s refinement and the artist’s skillful manipulation of light and texture. The painting is a quintessential example of Ingres’ mastery in portraiture, capturing both the physical likeness and the dignified character of its subject.