Portrait of the Countess Vilain XIIII and Her Daughter (1816) by Jacques-Louis David

Portrait of the Countess Vilain XIIII and Her Daughter - Jacques-Louis David - 1816

Artwork Information

TitlePortrait of the Countess Vilain XIIII and Her Daughter
ArtistJacques-Louis David
Date1816
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions95 x 76 cm
Art MovementNeoclassicism
Current LocationNational Gallery, London, UK

About Portrait of the Countess Vilain XIIII and Her Daughter

The artwork titled “Portrait of the Countess Vilain XIIII and Her Daughter” is a notable piece by the illustrious artist Jacques-Louis David, dated to the year 1816. This oil on canvas painting adheres to the principles of Neoclassicism, a movement that sought to capture the simplicity and elegance of classical antiquity. Measuring 95 by 76 centimeters, the artwork is a portrait genre that currently resides in the National Gallery in London, United Kingdom.

As for the artwork itself, it depicts a poised and elegant woman, identified as the Countess Vilain XIIII, along with her young daughter. The intimate portrayal captures a moment of maternal affection, with the countess’s daughter leaning comfortably against her. The artwork displays characteristics typical of neoclassical portraiture, with clear and controlled lines, a restrained color palette, and a serene ambiance. The composition is well balanced; the gaze of the sitters directly engages the viewer, fostering a connection steeped in the nobility and tender familial bonds. The countess dons a dark dress with a low neckline, accented with delicate lace and light blue ribbons that resonate with the purity and high status of the subjects. The vibrant orange drapery adds a dramatic contrast to the scene, enhancing the figures’ graciousness against the sober background. The child is attired in a white dress that mirrors the innocence and simplicity fitting to her youth. The portrayal is marked by the technical precision and the idealization of the figures, hallmarks of David’s mastery and his contribution to the neoclassical style.

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