Madame Dugazon in the Role of “Nina”
1787
146.0 x 115.0 cm
Elisabeth-Louise Vigée-Lebrun (? – ?)
Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842) was a leading portraitist of 18th-century French aristocracy, famed for her elegant depictions of Marie Antoinette and other prominent figures. Her Rococo and Neoclassical style captured both likeness and personality with refined beauty.
Here, Vigée Le Brun presents a major figure of the theatrical world—the actress, dancer, and singer Dugazon (1755–1831)—in the most memorable role of her career. The artist relates that she saw this famous performer in the title role of Nina, ou La Folle par amour (The Woman Crazed with Love) "at least twenty times." Nina rises from the bench, her expression animated, her eyes open wide, as she listens for the voice of her lover.
About this artwork
- Title: Madame Dugazon in the Role of “Nina”
- Artist: Elisabeth-Louise Vigée-Lebrun
- Year: 1787
- Original dimensions: 146.0 x 115.0 cm
- Format: Portrait
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Color hue: Ochre to Sepia
- Perceived brightness: deep_shadow