Study of the left hand of Mme de Pompadour 1715 - 1770

This drawing by François Boucher, a leading artist of the Rococo period, depicts the left hand of Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV. The study, executed in black chalk, is a testament to Boucher's masterful skill in capturing the delicate features of the human form. This intimate portrayal, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the artistic practices of the 18th century, demonstrating the focus on naturalism and elegance that defined the Rococo style.