The artwork you’re inquiring about is titled “Portrait of Madame X,” which is not a creation of Gustave Caillebotte as stated, but rather it seems to be incorrectly attributed as the artist is not known for using pastel or for a style that aligns with the provided artwork. The year mentioned, 1878, and the information that it is executed in pastel, suggests it would belong to the Impressionism movement, known for its characteristic brushwork and emphasis on light. Portraiture is a genre focused on depicting the likeness, personality, and mood of a person. This particular work is allegedly housed at the Musée Fabre in Montpellier, France.
However, upon observation, the artwork depicted does not match your description. It is indeed an Impressionist pastel, but the style of brushwork and the use of color suggest a different artist altogether. This pastel artwork, rich in blues and set within a domestic interior, contrasts with your description and instead aligns with the characteristics of another artist from the same period.
The artwork before us reveals the skillful use of the pastel medium to evoke texture and character. The room is bathed in shades of blue and the characters, including a woman in the forefront and a second figure in the background, appear contemplative. The furnishings, the soft fabric of the clothing, and the expressive faces are rendered with quick, directional strokes, a hallmark of the Impressionist approach to capturing fleeting moments and moods. The signature on the artwork, while not perfectly clear, does not seem to correspond with the name Gustave Caillebotte.
