The artwork titled “Mademoiselle Guimard” was painted by the artist Jacques-Louis David around 1773. This oil on canvas measures 195.5 by 120.5 centimeters and is exquisitely detailed, exemplifying the Neoclassical art movement. Though it was created in the 18th century, the portrait demonstrates classical attributes that were favored during this period. The genre of the artwork is portrait, and it is presently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a standing female figure occupying the central space of the composition. She is attired in a period dress that showcases the fashion of the time, with a pink skirt adorned with ribbon accents and a decorative lace embellishment. The full sleeves of the dress are sheer, billowing gently and gathered at the elbow with fitted lower sleeves. The corseted bodice in white with a pink lacing contributes to the period’s silhouette. A green, voluminous overskirt or shawl wraps around her, further accentuating her stance.
Her expression is congenial, with a hint of reserved contentment as she gently clasps a posy of flowers in her right hand. Her left hand rests lightly on her dress, contributing to the overall delicate and refined posture. On her head, she wears a large bonnet in a vibrant red, accented by a blue ribbon, further drawing attention to her visage.
Immediately adjacent to the central figure is a cherubic child, portrayed with wings, who appears to be playing with a bow and arrow, possibly depicting Cupid. The scene is likely allegorical or symbolic, tying the figure to themes of love or beauty. A small dog accompanies her, symbolically enhancing the themes of fidelity or companionship. The ground is adorned with a couple of discarded items, perhaps a mask and a broken bow, hinting at deeper narrative elements.
The background is an idyllic landscape, with flowers in the foreground and a hazy depiction of nature and possibly some architecture, enveloping the scene in a romanticized, pastoral aura. The delicate application of light, color, and composition illustrates the artist’s mastery of his craft and the ability to convey elegance and composed beauty.