Name/Title
Miniature PortraitContext
This miniature portrait on ivory represents the French painter Elisabeth Vigée Lebrun (1755-1842). Dressed in a red dress with a white ruff around her neck, she wears a white cloth turban reminiscent of the headdresses used by Rembrandt in numerous self-portraits. The result is a fresh and lively image, which enhances the gentle beauty of Vigée Lebrun, also declaring her talent as an artist. The miniaturist of this work was likely inspired by her 1790 self-portrait (Vasari Corridor, Florence, Italy).
The portrait is signed at the lower right : “Meunier”. However, as several portrait painters of the 18th and 19th century are listed under this name in standard references, a positive identification is impossible.
The circular ornate gold frame in the Louis XVI style presents a hanger as well as stand.Acquisition
Accession
2000.01Source or Donor
Robert E. and Millicent Louise McDonaldAcquisition Method
GiftMade/Created
Artist
Elisabeth Vigée Lebrun, 1755-1842 (after)