David, Jacques Louis – Juliette de Villeneuve, niece of Queen Julie, wife of Joseph Bonaparte. After the battle of Waterloo, queen Julie and her niece lived in Brussels; David was a frequent guest. 1824. Canvas, 1988 x 123 cm RF 1997-5 Part 2 Louvre

The canvas presents a full-length portrait of a woman positioned in a three-quarter view. She stands before a large harp, her posture suggesting both grace and composure. The subject is dressed in a high-waisted black gown with short sleeves, the neckline adorned with a delicate shawl featuring intricate gold and turquoise embroidery that cascades down her arm. Her hair is styled in an elaborate fashion, typical of the period, with curls framing her face.
The artist has employed a muted color palette dominated by dark tones – blacks, greens, and deep reds – which serve to highlight the subject’s pale complexion and the shimmering quality of the shawl. The red carpet upon which she stands provides a stark contrast against the darker background, drawing attention to her figure. A sheet music stand is visible to her right, holding several pages of musical notation, further reinforcing the theme of artistic refinement. Beside the stand rests a fan, its ivory surface decorated with floral motifs.
The composition’s arrangement conveys an air of quiet elegance and cultivated leisure. The harp, prominently displayed, signifies not only musical talent but also cultural sophistication – a common attribute associated with aristocratic circles. The womans gaze is directed towards the viewer, establishing a direct connection that suggests confidence and accessibility.
Subtleties within the painting hint at a narrative beyond mere representation. The backdrop, intentionally blurred, implies a domestic setting, possibly a salon or drawing room, suggesting a life of comfort and privilege. The harp’s size and ornate detailing indicate considerable expense and access to luxury goods. The overall impression is one of refined femininity, subtly conveying the subjects social standing and cultivated interests within a context marked by political upheaval – Waterloo having occurred relatively recently. The painting functions as an assertion of continuity and normalcy amidst societal change, portraying a woman embodying grace and cultural refinement in a time of transition.