Alexandre-François Caminade – Marie-Thérèse-Charlotte de France, Duchesse d’Angoulême, Madame Royale Château de Versailles

The portrait presents a woman in formal attire, positioned centrally within a classical architectural setting. She stands facing forward, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a composed and somewhat melancholic expression. The composition is structured around a three-quarter pose, allowing for a detailed depiction of her garments and accessories.
Here we see an elaborate red gown dominating the visual field. Its high waistline and puffed sleeves are characteristic of early 19th-century fashion. Intricate gold embroidery adorns the bodice and skirt, adding to the sense of opulence and refinement. A white lace shawl is draped over her left arm, partially obscuring a green fabric held within her hand. The gown’s train pools elegantly at her feet, further emphasizing her status and dignity.
The backdrop consists of a colonnaded portico with verdant foliage visible through the arches. Heavy draperies in deep green are drawn to one side, creating a sense of enclosure and formality while also hinting at an expansive outdoor space beyond. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating her face and highlighting the textures of her clothing.
At the lower left corner, a heraldic shield rests on a cushion. It features a crowned coat of arms surrounded by laurel leaves, signifying lineage and authority. This element reinforces the subject’s noble standing.
The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet dignity. The artist has carefully constructed an image that conveys not only wealth and status but also a sense of personal reserve. The subdued color palette, combined with her somber expression, suggests a narrative beyond mere representation – perhaps alluding to hardship or loss. The architectural setting, reminiscent of classical ideals, positions the subject within a framework of tradition and enduring values.