Artwork
Porträt der Luise von Preußen (1770-1836), Ehefrau von Anton Radziwiłł (1775-1833)

Porträt der Luise von Preußen (1770-1836), Ehefrau von Anton Radziwiłł (1775-1833) is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun. It dates from 1802 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
This portrait, created in 1802 by Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun, depicts Luise von Preußen, the wife of Anton Radziwiłł. Executed in oil paint, the work showcases Vigée Le Brun's distinctive blend of styles, characteristic of the transitional period between Rococo and Neoclassicism.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Luise von Preußen, is portrayed with calmness and serenity, her direct gaze engaging the viewer. Adorned in a black dress with a red sash, gold jewelry, and a feathered hairpiece, her attire reflects the elegance of her social standing. The portrait captures her individuality within the constraints of aristocratic portraiture.
Technique & Style
Vigée Le Brun's technique combines Rococo's sensibility with Neoclassicism's restraint, evident in the refined composition and detailed rendering of textures, from the subject's curly brown hair to the intricate gold jewelry, set against a subdued gray background.
History & Provenance
Originally painted in 1802 for Anton Radziwiłł, the portrait is now part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, testifying to its enduring artistic value.
Context
Created during Vigée Le Brun's period of adapting to Neoclassical influences, this work reflects the broader artistic shift in early 19th-century Europe, away from Rococo's exuberance towards greater sobriety and classical ideals.
Legacy
As one of Vigée Le Brun's works from her Neoclassical phase, the portrait contributes to her legacy as a prolific and versatile portraitist who successfully navigated changing artistic and political landscapes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun
Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (French: ; née Vigée; 16 April 1755 – 30 March 1842), also known as Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun or simply Madame Le Brun, was a French painter who mostly specialized in portrait…



















