Portrait of Marie Gabrielle de Gramont, Duchesse de Caderousse Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842)

The portrait presents a woman in a relaxed pose, seemingly caught mid-action within a pastoral setting. She holds a woven basket overflowing with fruit – apples and grapes are clearly discernible – and appears to be reaching for more. The composition is dominated by her figure, positioned slightly off-center against a dark, atmospheric background that lacks specific detail, drawing the viewer’s attention directly to her.
Her attire is noteworthy. A wide-brimmed straw hat sits atop her elaborately styled hair, partially obscuring it while adding an element of informality. The combination of a black jacket with a vibrant red skirt creates a striking contrast in color and texture. Delicate white fabric drapes around her neck and shoulders, adorned with what appear to be floral embellishments – a detail that introduces a touch of refinement despite the ostensibly rustic scene.
The woman’s expression is complex; she gazes directly at the viewer with an air of both confidence and perhaps a hint of playful amusement. This directness establishes a connection between subject and observer, inviting speculation about her character and circumstances. The lighting emphasizes her face and hands, highlighting their texture and contributing to the overall sense of immediacy.
Subtleties within the painting suggest layers of meaning beyond a simple depiction of a woman with fruit. The pastoral setting, coupled with the basket of produce, could allude to themes of abundance, fertility, or even idealized rural life – a common motif in aristocratic portraiture intended to project an image of naturalness and virtue. However, the woman’s attire, particularly the black jacket, introduces a note of ambiguity. While seemingly casual, it is also indicative of wealth and status, hinting at a deliberate construction of her persona. The red skirt, vibrant and bold, might symbolize passion or even rebellion against societal expectations.
The overall effect is one of carefully orchestrated informality – a portrait that seeks to portray the subject as both approachable and dignified, natural yet consciously styled. It’s likely intended to convey an image of a woman who possesses both charm and substance, comfortable in her position while maintaining a degree of independence.