Study of the portrait 

This pastel portrait, likely a study, showcases the skill of Maurice Quentin de La Tour, a renowned French portraitist of the 18th century. La Tour was known for his mastery of pastels, which he used to create remarkably lifelike and detailed depictions of his subjects. This piece, while incomplete, suggests a focus on the subject's face and the subtle nuances of their expression. The soft, blended strokes of the pastel medium capture the texture of the sitter's skin and hair, highlighting La Tour's keen observation and artistic finesse.