“Portrait of Madame Adelaide Pastoret” is an oil on canvas masterpiece by Jacques-Louis David, dated between 1791 and 1792, in the neoclassical style. Measuring 130 by 97 centimeters, it is a formal portrait of a woman, and it is currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, in Chicago, Illinois, United States.
The artwork exudes the elegance and restraint typical of neoclassical portraiture. It features Madame Adelaide Pastoret, who is portrayed in a half-length format, sitting with her body slightly turned to her right, but her gaze directed forward towards the viewer. She rests her left arm on a piece of furniture, possibly a table or chair, which is draped with a white cloth, while her right hand delicately holds a piece of said fabric. Her expression is gentle and contemplative, reflective of the grace and composure associated with the depictions of women in the era.
Madame Pastoret’s attire is a white dress with a simple yet refined design, evocative of the classical influences prevalent during the period. Its light fabric drapes softly around her form, creating a harmonious interplay of light and shadow that enhances the three-dimensionality of her figure. Her curly hair frames her face, adding to the softness of the composition. The artist has meticulously rendered each detail, emphasizing the texture of the clothing and the luminosity of her complexion against the subdued background.
The choice of muted colour palette and the controlled use of light and shadow in the artwork are distinctive of David’s neoclassical approach, underscoring the harmonious proportions and clarity of form that are hallmarks of this movement. The portrait communicates a sense of timeless dignity and poise, providing an insightful look into the social and cultural mores of the time.