Portrait of Madame Gaignat c. 18th century

Curator: Here we have Nicolas Lancret's "Portrait of Madame Gaignat," part of the collection at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Oh, she looks so demure, a gentle soul perhaps, holding that little bird. The whole thing feels like a whisper. Curator: Indeed. Note how Lancret's composition directs the gaze from the sitter to the bird, then to the cage—a visual chain suggesting themes of freedom, confinement, and possibly the nature of the sitter’s position in society. Editor: Or maybe she just loves birds! I bet that bird is her best friend. I bet it knows all her secrets. Curator: Semiotically, the avian motif often alludes to the soul, or even romantic longing. Lancret also employs a subdued palette, heightening the sense of interiority. Editor: Well, whatever it means, I like the overall softness. It makes me want to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea, maybe with a little bird on my finger. Curator: An interesting personal response to the formal elements, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Always a pleasure.