Portret van Marie Bras als Dame Catherine in La Dame des Belles Cousines 1823

Alexandre-Marie Colin created this print of Marie Bras as Dame Catherine, using lithography. The figure of Marie Bras dominates the composition with her presence both regal and serene. The artist's use of lithography captures a rich interplay of light and shadow, lending depth and texture to the portrayal of her elaborate costume. Her garments, draped and detailed, serve not only as a marker of status but also echo structural themes present in theatrical performance. The lines of the composition draw our eyes upward, to her gaze and simple headpiece, imbuing the figure with a contemplative air. In semiotic terms, Marie Bras as 'Dame Catherine' becomes a signifier of both historical and fictional narratives, inviting viewers to interpret how representation can shape our understanding of identity and history. This print invites us to consider the fluid boundaries between performance, representation, and identity, reminding us that the meaning of an artwork lies in its dynamic interaction with its viewers and cultural context.