François Pascal Simon, Baron Gérard (Rome, March 12, 1770 – Paris, January 11, 1837) was a French painter born in Italy, where his father occupied a post in the house of the French ambassador. His mother was Italian. Gérard is best remembered for his portraits; the colour of his paintings has suffered, but his drawings show in uninjured delicacy the purity of his line; and those of women are specially remarkable for a virginal simplicity and frankness of expression.
Showing posts with label François Gérard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label François Gérard. Show all posts
Friday, July 29, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
François Gérard - Portrait of Joséphine [1801]
François Gérard (March 12, 1770 - January 11, 1837), one of the most popular society painters during the periods of the Consulate and the First Empire, painted this portrait of Joséphine in 1801. It represents a new type of more accessible portrait, lacking in official pomp. The First Lady is seen in relaxed pose, with thoughtful gaze, on the open terrace of the palace at Malmaison as she perhaps takes a rest after a walk.
The park landscape and bunch of flowers on the sofa create an atmosphere of sentimental poetry, emphasizing the inner state of the sitter. The idealization of the model and the static composition built upon a balance of horizontal and vertical lines are very much within the traditions of Neoclassicism.
[Oil on canvas, 178 x 174 cm]
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