Self-Portrait, Marie-Gabrielle Capet (1783)
In this self-portrait, Capet is shown holding drawing chalk clasped in a holder as she faces the easel. The painting is a splendid rendition of her youthful face, showing her in the fresh beauty of her 22nd year. The blue satin dress, boldly open at the chest, was fashionable for her day and blue ribbons of the same material reveal the gay lightness of the 18th century. However, in addition to its light Rococo sensuality, the painting also reveals a direct, simple expression that prefigures the styles of the coming age.
