Ingres Madame Charles Gounod born Anna Zimmermann Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (1780-1867)

Here we observe a portrait drawing executed in graphite on paper. The subject is a woman depicted in a three-quarter pose, seated and turned slightly towards the viewer. Her gaze is direct, conveying a sense of composure and quiet confidence.
The artist has rendered her features with meticulous detail, emphasizing the delicate structure of her face – the gentle curve of her eyebrows, the subtle shading around her eyes, and the soft modeling of her lips. The hair, styled in an elaborate arrangement typical of the period, is carefully sketched, individual strands suggested through a network of fine lines. A ribbon adorns her hair, adding a touch of refinement to her appearance.
The woman’s attire consists of a blouse with gathered sleeves and a high collar, layered over what appears to be a darker dress. The folds of the fabric are rendered with considerable skill, demonstrating an understanding of drapery and its effect on light and shadow. Her hands rest gracefully in her lap, one arm draped across the back of a chair.
The drawing’s background is left largely unrendered, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the subject. The artist has included inscriptions – seemingly notations or signatures – in both French and English, positioned at the upper right and lower left corners of the sheet. These markings provide contextual information about the works creation and provenance.
Beyond a straightforward representation, the drawing suggests an exploration of feminine identity within a specific social context. The woman’s posture and expression convey a sense of dignity and intelligence, hinting at her position within a cultured milieu. The meticulous attention to detail in rendering her features and clothing underscores the importance placed on appearances and refinement during this era. There is a certain restraint in the portrayal; it avoids overt displays of emotion, instead presenting a carefully constructed image of composure and grace.