Portrait of Pierre Choderlos De Laclos (1741-1803) officer and French writer Joseph Ducreux (1735-1802)

Here we observe a pastel drawing depicting a man in what appears to be military attire. The subject is positioned against a warm, neutral background that allows his features and clothing to take precedence. His gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of directness and perhaps even scrutiny.
The artist has rendered the man’s face with considerable detail, emphasizing the texture of his skin through subtle variations in tone. The eyes are particularly striking – a pale blue hue that stands out against the surrounding complexion. They possess an intensity that suggests intelligence and observation. A slight downward curve to the mouth hints at a contemplative or perhaps even melancholic disposition.
The elaborate powdered wig, a hallmark of the period, dominates the upper portion of the composition. The artist has captured its voluminous form with delicate strokes, suggesting both meticulous grooming and a certain degree of vanity. The clothing – a dark coat over a white shirt and cravat – indicates a position of some social standing or military rank. The loose rendering of the fabric suggests movement and a casualness that contrasts with the formality of the wig and the direct gaze.
Subtleties in the drawing suggest more than just a straightforward portrait. The slight asymmetry of the face, rather than being corrected, is presented as part of the man’s individual character. This approach moves beyond mere representation towards an attempt at psychological insight. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and intellectual depth – a portrayal that seeks to convey not only physical likeness but also a sense of personality and inner life. The artist seems interested in capturing a moment of quiet reflection, hinting at the complexities of the sitters character.