L'amitié Sous Les Traits De Mme De Pompadour 

Jean-Baptiste Pigalle sculpted 'L'amitié Sous Les Traits De Mme De Pompadour' from marble. This sculpture presents Madame de Pompadour in the guise of Friendship. Notice how Pigalle uses classical elements with a Rococo sensibility. The flowing drapery and soft, sensual curves create a sense of movement and emotion. The smooth finish of the marble enhances the sculpture's sensuality, inviting a tactile experience through vision. The figure's pose, with one hand gently gesturing towards her chest, suggests intimacy and vulnerability. The classical references elevate Madame de Pompadour beyond a mere portrait, aligning her with timeless ideals of virtue and grace. However, the Rococo style prevents it from resembling austere Roman sculpture. Pigalle's skill lies in the fusion of classical form and contemporary sentiment. Consider the visual dialogue between classical ideals and the Rococo's emphasis on emotion and pleasure. This sculpture opens up questions about how art can simultaneously idealize and humanize its subjects.