Preparation to the portrait of Mrs. Rougeau 

This pastel portrait by Maurice Quentin de La Tour, a prominent 18th-century French artist, captures the essence of a woman in a preparatory stage for a larger composition. The subject's piercing blue eyes and soft, nuanced expression are rendered with remarkable detail, demonstrating La Tour's mastery of pastel technique. The subtle blush on the cheeks and the faint hint of a smile create a sense of intimacy and warmth, inviting viewers to connect with the sitter on a personal level. This preparatory study showcases La Tour's ability to convey character and emotion with remarkable sensitivity and nuance, highlighting the power of pastel as a medium for portraiture.