Portrait une danseuse au tambourin Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842)

Here we observe a portrait of a young woman in what appears to be theatrical costume. The composition is vertically oriented, with the subject positioned slightly off-center and angled towards the viewer. A dark, undefined background serves to isolate her figure, emphasizing her presence within the frame.
The woman’s attire immediately suggests a performance context. She wears a voluminous gown of striped fabric – alternating shades of pale pink, cream, and gold – with delicate lace detailing at the sleeves and neckline. The skirt is caught up in swirling folds, implying movement and dynamism. A wide-brimmed hat, also in a muted blue hue, adorns her head, embellished with ribbons and what seem to be floral elements. Her hairstyle, characteristic of the period, is elaborate, featuring cascading curls that frame her face.
She holds a tambourine, its rim decorated with painted motifs – likely flowers or foliage – which she presents towards the viewer. The gesture is not one of active playing; rather, it’s a poised display, suggesting a moment captured between performances or during a rehearsal. Her expression is somewhat enigmatic: a slight smile plays on her lips, but her gaze appears distant and introspective.
The color palette is dominated by soft pastels – pinks, creams, golds, and blues – creating an atmosphere of delicate elegance. The artist’s use of light is notable; it illuminates the womans face and upper body, while leaving the lower portion of the gown in shadow, contributing to a sense of depth and volume.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of performance, femininity, and perhaps even a touch of melancholy. The theatrical costume hints at a life lived under scrutiny, where identity is partially constructed through role-playing. The woman’s gaze suggests an awareness of this performative aspect – a quiet contemplation behind the facade of entertainment. The overall impression is one of fleeting beauty and a hint of underlying complexity.