Madame de Wailly, née Adélaïde-Flore Belleville (1765–1838) 1789

This is a marble bust of Madame de Wailly, née Adélaïde-Flore Belleville, created by Augustin Pajou. The cool, smooth surface of the marble gives a sense of serene stillness. The sculpture is structured around contrasting textures, with the intricate curls of Madame de Wailly's hair flowing against the smooth, draped fabric. Pajou uses line and form to convey both the physical likeness and social status of his subject. The precise carving and attention to detail in the hair and facial features contrast with the broader, more simplified treatment of the drapery. This contrast invites a deeper exploration of how textures can define meaning within a sculpture. The bust is not just a portrait, but an exploration of how material and form can convey character, social standing, and the complex interplay between surface and depth.