Portrait de Marie de Robien, Vicomtesse de Mirabeau Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842)

Here we observe a portrait of a woman engaged in playing a guitar. The composition is structured around her figure, positioned centrally and facing directly toward the viewer. Her gaze is steady and engaging, conveying a sense of composure and perhaps even playful confidence.
The artist has rendered the subject with meticulous attention to detail, particularly regarding the texture of her skin and the delicate folds of her gown. The dress itself is noteworthy; its light blue hue contrasts subtly with the darker background foliage, drawing focus to the sitter while maintaining an overall harmonious palette. A ribbon adorns both her hair and the headstock of the guitar, introducing a decorative element that reinforces the impression of refinement and leisure.
The setting appears to be outdoors, suggested by the indistinct backdrop of trees and foliage. This naturalistic environment contributes to a sense of relaxed informality, contrasting with the formality typically associated with portraiture of this period. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating her face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow. This technique serves to further isolate the subject and enhance her presence within the frame.
Subtleties within the painting suggest a deeper narrative. The guitar itself, an instrument often linked to pastoral themes and romantic pursuits, implies a cultivated sensibility and perhaps even artistic inclinations on the part of the sitter. Her direct gaze could be interpreted as a challenge to conventional portraiture, where women were frequently depicted in more passive or demure poses. It suggests agency and self-possession. The overall impression is one of an educated woman enjoying a moment of leisure, presented not merely as an object of observation but as an individual with personality and interests.

The signature visible at the lower left corner indicates the work was completed in 1776.