Line, fabric and distinction · Elegance as a pictorial construction

Sargent, Klimt and Ingres transform dress, pose, decor and touch of material into a language of distinction that goes beyond simple fashion.

Pictorial elegance results from a balance between model, silhouette, material and space. Madame X by Sargent is based on the contrast between a very structured black dress, light skin and a bare brown background; the profile pose affirms both independence and status. Klimt envelops Adèle Bloch-Bauer in a field of gold where jewelry, dress and decor become almost inseparable. Ingres gives La Princesse de Broglie exceptional linear precision: blue satin, lace, jewelry and interior build a cold and refined perfection. Ingres gives La Princesse de Broglie exceptional linear precision: blue satin, lace, jewelry and interior build a cold and refined perfection. Ingres gives La Princesse de Broglie exceptional linear precision: blue satin, lace, jewelry and interior build a cold and refined perfection. Ingres gives La Princesse de Broglie exceptional linear precision: jewelry, dress and decor become almost inseparable. Ingres gives La Princesse de Broglie exceptional linear precision: blue satin, lace, jewelry and interior build a cold and refined perfection. Ingres gives La Princesse de Broglie exceptional linear precision: blue satin, lace, jewelry and interior build a cold and refined perfection. Ing thus arises from the relationship between control and naturalness. The "Elegant Portraits" selection notably compares Madame X - John Singer Sargent and Portrait of Adèle Bloch-Bauer I - Gustav Klimt. His reading favors the material.

An elegant portrait doesn't just show beautiful clothes: it transforms outfit, posture and space into a consistent way of being looked at.