Vigée-Lebrun, Elisabeth-Louise – Stanislas-Auguste Poniatowski, roi de Pologne Château de Versailles

The portrait presents a man in three-quarter view, set against a dark, neutral background that emphasizes his figure and attire. He is positioned slightly off-center within an oval frame, a compositional choice common for formal portraits of the era. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it illuminates his face and upper torso while leaving portions of his red velvet cloak in shadow, creating depth and highlighting the texture of the fabric.
Here we see a man of considerable age, evidenced by the lines etched around his eyes and mouth, and the fullness of his jowls. His complexion appears rosy, suggesting health or perhaps an attempt to mask signs of aging through cosmetic practices prevalent at the time. The artist rendered his hair in a voluminous style characteristic of late 18th-century fashion – powdered white and arranged in curls that frame his face.
He wears a dark blue coat with elaborate lace trim at the neck, visible beneath a crisp white cravat. A decorative brooch is pinned to his chest, likely signifying rank or membership in an order. The red velvet cloak draped over his shoulders adds a sense of grandeur and authority.
The man’s gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of self-assurance and perhaps even a degree of scrutiny. His expression is not overtly jovial but rather one of dignified composure. Theres a subtle tension in his mouth that could be interpreted as seriousness or restraint.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of power and status. The rich fabrics, elaborate details of dress, and formal pose all contribute to an image of nobility and importance. The dark background serves not only to isolate the subject but also to create a sense of mystery and distance, reinforcing his elevated position. The artist’s attention to detail in rendering textures – the sheen of the lace, the softness of the velvet, the fine lines on the face – suggests a desire to portray not just likeness, but also character and social standing.