Preparation to the portrait of Madame de Pompadour 

"Preparation to the portrait of Madame de Pompadour" is a pastel drawing by Maurice Quentin de La Tour, a prominent French portraitist known for his pastel work. This study focuses on the face of Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV, capturing her delicate features with soft, blended strokes. The work is likely a preparatory study for a larger portrait, showcasing La Tour's meticulous approach to detail and his ability to convey the sitter's personality through subtle expressions. De La Tour's pastels, characterized by their softness and luminosity, were highly sought after during his lifetime.