Lady with Pink Cape

The unknown lady, having had her miniature painted around the middle of the 18th century, dispensed with attributes indicating her social rank. According to the portrayal tradition of Nattier, her bust is embedded in abundantly puffed fabrics, the sheen and reflection of which form their own ornamental structures. Her clothes, stemming from the artist's imagination, remove the sitter from every day life; she seems to reside rather among Greek gods than on earthly grounds. This alienation effect permitted the painter to represent the beauty with an uncovered breast, without the painting being offensive or obscene. The uncontrived pose and the gentle smile highlight the semblance of youthful freshness and charm.

The delicateness of the incarnate parts, being only moulded in soft nuances, is here further enhanced in front of the darkening evening sky. Its brighter part borders on the shady side of the sitter's face thus making for its plasticity. The prevalent hues of blue and pink correspond to the colour palette of Nattier, who got inspired by the range of pastel shades. The broad brushstrokes and the use of ivory as a painting support, though, plead rather in favour of a Swedish than a French artist.

B.P.