Elisa Bonaparte, the Princess Bacciochi, Princess of Lucca and Piombino; verso: Faint Sketch of Maréchal Berthier Holding the Imperial Orb of Charlemagne 1805 - 1806

Editor: Here we have Jacques-Louis David’s sketch of "Elisa Bonaparte, the Princess Bacciochi, Princess of Lucca and Piombino." It's interesting to see the grid lines; it makes me wonder about the process he used. What compositional elements stand out to you? Curator: The grid establishes a clear structural framework. Note how the figure's verticality interacts with it; the lines emphasize her posture and the controlled elegance of her gown. How does this underlying structure affect your reading of the portrait? Editor: It makes it feel very controlled and deliberate, almost mathematical. I guess I expected something more free-flowing. Curator: Exactly. The structural rigor contrasts with the flowing lines of her dress, creating a tension. This tension animates the form. Editor: That's a great observation. I’ll definitely look at sketches differently now.