Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun – Madame Grand (Noël-Catherine Verlée, 1761–1835), Later Madame de Talleyrand-Périgord, Princesse de Bénévent Metropolitan Museum: part 4

The portrait presents a woman seated in what appears to be a luxurious interior setting. She is positioned slightly off-center within an oval frame, which draws immediate attention to her figure and expression. The dark background serves to isolate the subject, emphasizing her presence and highlighting the delicate rendering of her skin tones.
Here we see a woman with fair complexion and light blonde hair styled in elaborate curls, typical of the late 18th century. A pale blue ribbon adorns her hair, echoing the color found on her gown. The dress itself is a flowing confection of silk or similar fabric, loosely draped to reveal a hint of décolletage. This subtle exposure suggests an air of refined elegance rather than overt sensuality.
The woman holds a sheet of paper in her hand, which she gazes at with an expression that blends contemplation and mild amusement. The gesture is not one of intense study but rather implies leisure and intellectual curiosity. Her posture is relaxed; she leans against a plush green cushion, conveying a sense of comfort and ease within her social standing.
The artist’s attention to detail is evident in the rendering of textures – the sheen of the fabric, the softness of the hair, and the subtle play of light on her skin. The brushwork appears fluid and delicate, contributing to an overall impression of grace and refinement.
Subtly, the portrait conveys a sense of privilege and status. The luxurious fabrics, the elegant hairstyle, and the relaxed posture all point towards a woman of considerable wealth and social standing. The presence of the paper suggests intellectual pursuits or perhaps correspondence with someone of importance. It is not merely a decorative object but an indicator of her engagement with the world beyond immediate domesticity.
The overall effect is one of understated elegance and quiet confidence, portraying a woman who embodies the ideals of beauty and refinement prevalent in aristocratic circles during this period.