The Memoirs of Madame Vigée Lebrun

Name: The Memoirs of Madame Vigée Lebrun
Author: Louise-Elisabeth Vigée-Lebrun

By Louise-Elisabeth Vigée-Lebrun

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About This Book

The memoir recounts the life and career of a prominent portrait painter, following early talent and rise in Paris, election to the Academy, and frequent royal commissions. It chronicles travel and prolonged exile across Italy, Austria, Britain, and Russia, offering vivid observations of courts, social customs, and artistic practice. Anecdotes illuminate studio routines, patronage, and the practical business of painting. Personal setbacks, including family estrangement and bereavement, punctuate the narrative, which concludes with reflections on return and a catalogue of works.

About the Author

Louise-Elisabeth Vigée-Lebrun

Louise-Elisabeth Vigée-Lebrun (1755-1842) was a prominent French portrait painter known for her association with the court of Marie Antoinette. Renowned for her ability to capture the elegance and personality of her subjects, she became one of the most celebrated female artists of her time. Her notable works include 'The Memoirs of Madame Vigée Lebrun,' where she provides insights into her life and the art world of the 18th century. Vigée-Lebrun's style is characterized by its vibrant colors and intimate portrayals, which contributed significantly to the development of portraiture in France. Her legacy continues to inspire artists and art historians alike.