Madame de Pompadour at her Toilette Francois Boucher (1703-1770)

The painting depicts Madame de Pompadour, the influential mistress of King Louis XV of France, in an intimate setting at her toilette. She is shown from the chest up, seated with a mirror to her right. Her hair is styled in an elaborate updo and adorned with blue flowers. She wears a lavish gown with ruffles and lace, accented by a pink ribbon at her décolletage and a broche on her wrist. Her complexion is fair and rosy, with rouged cheeks and lips, and she holds a makeup brush in her right hand, poised as if to apply makeup. On the table before her, we can see a vanity case, a powder puff, ribbons, and some decorative floral elements. The overall impression is one of refined elegance and leisure, typical of Rococo portraiture.

Subtexts in the painting include:

• Power and Influence: As the Kings mistress, Madame de Pompadour held significant political and cultural influence. The portrait, commissioned by the King, serves as a testament to her elevated status and beauty, reinforcing her position within the court.
• Beauty Standards and Fashion: The painting showcases the prevailing beauty ideals of the 18th century, emphasizing pale skin, rosy cheeks, and elaborate hairstyles. Her luxurious attire also highlights the opulence and fashion of the era, reflecting her role as a trendsetter.
• Intimacy and Private Life: The scene of a woman at her toilette was traditionally considered private. However, this portrait offers a glimpse into that private world, blending the public image of a powerful figure with a more personal moment, suggesting a carefully curated intimacy.
• Artificiality and Performance: The very act of applying makeup suggests a degree of artifice. In the context of court life, where appearances were paramount, this scene can be interpreted as a quiet moment of preparation for public performance and the projection of a desired image.
• Patronage: The painting itself, done by the renowned artist François Boucher, is a symbol of artistic patronage, with Madame de Pompadour being a significant supporter of the arts.