Terracotta Bust of Madame De Pompadour: A Glimpse Into 18th-Century French Elegance

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Description

16”W x 27”H x 13”D

This terracotta bust immortalizes Madame de Pompadour (Jeanne-Antoinette Poisson, French, 1721-1764), the influential mistress of … Read more 16”W x 27”H x 13”D

This terracotta bust immortalizes Madame de Pompadour (Jeanne-Antoinette Poisson, French, 1721-1764), the influential mistress of King Louis XV, offering a window into the refinement and intellectual spirit of the French court. Rendered in warm-toned terracotta, the sculpture's elegant form and tactile quality are immediately captivating. The artist masterfully captures Pompadour's refined features and elaborate hairstyle, meticulously detailed in the Rococo fashion of the era. From her delicately styled coiffure to the classical poise of her countenance, every element reflects the artistic excellence of 18th-century French portraiture. Rising on its integral socle, this terracotta bust grounds the elevated status of its subject with a sense of naturalism, providing both a historical representation and a testament to an era of opulence and cultural sophistication.

The Rococo period, during which Madame de Pompadour lived, favored a lighter, more decorative style. Terracotta, with its versatility and ease of handling, was well-suited for capturing the delicate details and flowing lines characteristic of Rococo art.

France

Mid to Late 18th Century See less