Portrait of Princess Belozersky Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842)

The portrait presents a young woman in a three-quarter pose, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a gentle, almost melancholic expression. She is positioned against a dark, indistinct background that allows for greater focus on her figure and attire. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting the delicate features of her face and the textures of her clothing.
Here we see a carefully constructed image of feminine grace and understated elegance. Her hair, partially concealed by a turban-like head covering in shades of blue and yellow, frames a face characterized by large eyes and a softly rounded chin. The artist has rendered the skin with meticulous attention to detail, capturing subtle nuances of color and tone that suggest both youthfulness and an underlying quiet introspection.
The woman’s attire contributes significantly to the overall impression. A white blouse is layered beneath a yellow vest or shawl, which drapes loosely across her shoulders and arm. The blue fabric echoes the colors in her head covering, creating visual harmony within the composition. This combination of fabrics suggests a deliberate attempt at portraying a blend of refinement and relaxed informality – a style popular among aristocratic circles during this period.
The presence of small earrings hints at wealth and status, while the overall simplicity of the presentation avoids ostentation. The pose itself is naturalistic; she leans slightly forward, her hand resting on her hip in a gesture that conveys both composure and accessibility. This relaxed posture contrasts with the formality often associated with portraiture, suggesting an attempt to portray a more intimate and approachable subject.
Subtly, there’s a sense of vulnerability conveyed through her expression. The slight downturn of her lips and the softness in her eyes hint at a depth of emotion that transcends mere surface appearance. This nuanced portrayal moves beyond a simple depiction of beauty; it suggests an exploration of inner character and psychological complexity. The subdued color palette reinforces this feeling, contributing to a mood of quiet contemplation rather than exuberant display.