Portrait de Madame Allouard-Jouan c. 1884

John Singer Sargent's "Portrait de Madame Allouard-Jouan" (c. 1884) is a captivating portrait depicting a woman in a dark dress, a symbol of the somber mood prevalent in late 19th-century portraiture. The subject's gaze is direct and introspective, reflecting Sargent's ability to capture psychological depth. The dark background emphasizes the figure, drawing the viewer's attention to the delicate details of her face and the texture of her clothing. This painting exemplifies Sargent's signature style, characterized by loose brushstrokes and a preference for natural light, resulting in a vibrant and lifelike depiction of his subject.