Antoinette-Elisabeth-Marie d’Aguesseau, comtesse de Segur Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842)

The portrait presents a woman in what appears to be a domestic setting. She is positioned slightly off-center, leaning on a table draped with a rich crimson cloth that contrasts sharply with her attire. The composition directs the viewers gaze towards her face, which exhibits an expression of quiet composure and gentle intelligence.
Her clothing reflects the fashion of the late eighteenth century: a vibrant yellow skirt cascades from beneath a fitted blue velvet jacket, adorned with delicate lace at the cuffs and collar. A white fichu is artfully arranged around her neck, adding to the overall impression of refined elegance. The large, wide-brimmed hat, also in blue, is embellished with feathers and ribbons, further emphasizing her status and taste.
A small arrangement of wildflowers rests on the table beside her hand, a detail that introduces an element of naturalism into the otherwise formal presentation. These flowers are not lavish or exotic; their simplicity suggests a connection to nature and perhaps a subtle indication of virtue or modesty. The placement of her hand upon the table, casually resting near the floral display, contributes to the sense of relaxed grace.
The background is deliberately muted, rendered in soft grays and browns that serve to highlight the subjects figure and clothing. This lack of detail draws attention to the woman herself, reinforcing the portrait’s focus on her character and social standing. The lighting is carefully controlled, illuminating her face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow.
Subtly, the painting conveys a sense of stability and established order. The rich fabrics, the careful arrangement of objects, and the womans poised demeanor all point to a life of privilege and comfort. However, the inclusion of wildflowers introduces a touch of informality that prevents the portrait from feeling overly ostentatious or rigid. It suggests an individual who is both refined and connected to a more natural world – a balance characteristic of aristocratic ideals during this period.