Jean-Marc Nattier – Jeanne-Antoinette Poisson (1722-1764), Marquise de Pompadour, represented as Diana the Huntress Château de Versailles

The composition presents a woman in a pose suggestive of classical mythology. She is seated on what appears to be a rocky outcrop, partially obscured by foliage and shadowed by a dramatic sky. The background landscape fades into a hazy distance, emphasizing the figures prominence. Her attire is layered; a flowing white gown drapes off one shoulder, revealing a portion of her neck and chest, while a heavy blue cloak or mantle cascades around her, pooling at her feet. A fur stole, likely leopard or similar animal skin, is draped across her shoulders, adding an element of luxury and wildness to the scene.
The woman holds a bow in her right hand, drawn taut with what seems to be an arrow pointed upwards and out of view. Her left hand rests on a quiver positioned at her side. The expression on her face is one of serene confidence; her gaze is directed slightly off-center, conveying a sense of detached authority rather than overt aggression or action. Her hair is styled in elaborate curls, typical of the period, further contributing to an impression of refined elegance.
Several subtexts are embedded within this portrayal. The association with Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, immediately elevates the subject beyond a mere portrait. It suggests qualities such as independence, power, and connection to nature – attributes often associated with female rulers or influential figures. The leopard fur is a potent symbol; it signifies both nobility (as a royal emblem) and predatory strength. The bow and arrow, while instruments of hunting, also imply control and precision, hinting at the subject’s influence in political or social spheres.
The artists use of light and shadow further reinforces these meanings. The woman is bathed in soft illumination, highlighting her features and emphasizing her idealized beauty. The darker background creates a sense of depth and mystery, suggesting that she exists within a larger, more complex world. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed symbolism designed to project an image of power, grace, and refined authority.