Heures Du Soir. Mlle. Laure Deveria c. 1830

Achille Devéria's "Heures Du Soir. Mlle. Laure Deveria" (c. 1830) is a romantic portrait of the artist's sister, Laure, rendered in watercolor and gouache. The painting captures Laure in an elegant pose, seated on a plush sofa in a lavish interior. She is adorned in a white gown, trimmed with black ribbons and embellished with delicate lace. Devéria's use of light and shadow emphasizes the soft contours of Laure's features, highlighting the beauty and grace of his subject. The inclusion of a single pink rose adds a touch of color and symbolism, suggesting the delicate beauty of youth and love. The intimate scale of the work allows viewers to connect with the subject's personal charm and refinement. This portrait exemplifies the romantic sensibilities of the era, showcasing the idealized depiction of feminine beauty and elegance prevalent in 19th-century art.