Portrait of a Lady c. 1815 - 1817

Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres's "Portrait of a Lady" (c. 1815-1817) is a masterful example of Neoclassical portraiture, capturing the elegance and refinement of a woman of the early 19th century. Executed in pencil, the work showcases Ingres's meticulous attention to detail, evident in the delicate rendering of the sitter's features, clothing, and the subtle folds of her drapery. The portrait exudes a sense of timeless grace and restrained emotion, reflecting the artistic ideals of the period, which emphasized clarity, balance, and idealized beauty. Ingres's mastery of line and his ability to convey character through subtle nuances of form make this portrait a compelling and enduring work of art.