The artwork titled “Delphine Ramel, Madame Ingres” is a portrait executed in 1859 by the eminent artist Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres. Created with oil on canvas, this piece is an exemplar of the Neoclassicism art movement. The portrait’s dimensions are 63 x 50 cm, and it is positioned within the collection of the Oskar Reinhart Foundation in Winterthur, Switzerland. This artwork portrays a genre scene of the period, focusing on an individual likeness.
In this artwork, the subject is depicted with a serene and thoughtful expression, her gaze subtly meeting the viewer’s. Dressed elegantly in a royal blue garment with intricate lace and satin textures, Madame Ingres exudes an aura of refined grace. Ingres’s mastery is evident in the smooth rendering of her skin against the rich, dark background. The lighting gently illuminates her features, accentuating her contemplative demeanor and the softness of her flesh.
Particular attention must be drawn to the delicate accessories and jewelry, which include pearl earrings, various rings adorning her fingers, and a luxurious bracelet on her wrist. These details are captured with exquisite precision, demonstrating Ingres’ skill in portraying the finery and status of his subject. The artist has also included a lace cap with a floral adornment, which adds to the sophistication of the subject.
The subject’s pose, with one hand supporting her face and the other resting gently on an arm of the chair, suggests a moment of introspection or quiet repose. Her attire and the overall sensibility of the painting align with the neoclassical style’s emphasis on idealization and clarity of form. In sum, the artwork reflects the artist’s commitment to capturing the essence of his subject with elegance and a profound attention to detail, all while embodying the aesthetic principles of his time.
