Portrait of Madame Charles-Pierre Pecoul, nee Potain, mother-in-law of the artist 1784

Jacques-Louis David's "Portrait of Madame Charles-Pierre Pecoul, nee Potain, mother-in-law of the artist" (1784) is a striking example of Neoclassical portraiture. The subject is rendered with a realistic style, emphasizing her elegant attire and refined features. David's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the delicate lace collar, the intricately tied ribbon, and the subtle play of light on her face. The composition, with its restrained pose and minimal background, further reinforces the Neoclassical ideal of order and clarity. This portrait exemplifies David's ability to capture both the individual character and the societal status of his sitter, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the history of French portraiture.