The artwork entitled “Portrait of Marguerite Charlotte David” was executed by Jacques-Louis David in 1813. It is an oil painting on canvas, measuring 72 by 63 centimeters, and is a fine example of the Neoclassical art movement. The genre of the painting is portraiture. Currently, this work of art is housed at the National Gallery of Art, located in Washington, DC, United States.
The artwork depicts a woman positioned slightly to the right, making eye contact with the viewer. Her expression is gentle and composed. Characteristic of Neoclassicism, the painting features crisp lines that delineate the subject’s form and a clear, controlled palette, emphasizing rationality and simplicity over emotion and drama. The sitter’s attire suggests elegance and refinement, with a white satin gown and puffed sleeves complemented by a deep red shawl draped across her arm and lap. Her hair is styled fashionably with curls framing her forehead and a feathered headdress that adds a touch of opulence to her appearance. The background is unadorned and dark, which ensures that the viewer’s attention remains focused on the portrait’s subject. Jacques-Louis David’s signature can be discerned at the lower left of the canvas, confirming the authenticity and date of the work. Overall, the portrait is an exemplar of the Neoclassical style’s emphasis on formality, harmony, and the grandeur of simplicity.