Profile of a Lady in a Bonnet 1750 - 1807

Augustin de Saint-Aubin made this portrait of a lady with black chalk, sometime in the 18th century. The visible texture of the chalk and the hatching technique used to create shading give this portrait a unique, handmade quality. The softness of the chalk allows for subtle gradations in tone, capturing the delicate features of the woman's face and the intricate details of her bonnet. Consider also the context in which this portrait was created. In the 18th century, portraiture was a luxury, and this intimate drawing may have been a preparatory study for a more formal piece, or perhaps a personal memento. Chalk was a relatively accessible material, allowing artists to create portraits for a broader audience than traditional oil painting. Thinking about the materials and processes used, we can see how this portrait reflects the intersection of artistry, social status, and the democratization of art production in the 18th century. It blurs the line between fine art and craft, reminding us of the value of skill and intention in artmaking.