Benoit Marie Guillemin – Portrait of a black woman Louvre (Paris)

The painting is a portrait of a Black woman, depicted from the torso up, seated and turned slightly towards the viewer. She wears a white turban wrapped around her head and a white garment partially covering her body, revealing her chest and one arm. A dark blue fabric drapes over her shoulder. Her skin is a rich, dark tone, and she wears a simple hoop earring in her left ear. Her gaze is direct and engaging, meeting the viewers eyes. The background is a plain, soft yellow.
The subtexts of this painting are rich and complex, particularly in the context of its creation. The direct gaze of the sitter challenges the viewers perception and potentially subverts traditional power dynamics often associated with portraits of Black individuals from this era. The partially revealed chest and the luxurious fabrics could allude to themes of sensuality, exoticism, or even vulnerability, depending on the viewers interpretation and historical context. The turban might suggest a connection to North African or Middle Eastern influences, adding another layer to her identity and perceived origin. The painting may also be seen as an assertion of beauty and presence, offering a dignified portrayal of a Black subject, which was not always common in Western art. The contrast between her dark skin and the white of her garments and turban draws attention to her features and form, highlighting her as the central focus of the artwork. The relaxed yet composed posture suggests a degree of agency and self-possession.