Self-Portrait in a Straw Hat
Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun1782Oil on canvas
Le Brun's dazzling self-portrait was inspired by Rubens' Chapeau de Paille. She painted herself with natural light falling from above — a masterclass in depicting sunlight and shadow. As the favorite portraitist of Marie Antoinette, she was one of only two women admitted to the French Royal Academy.
Color Mood
Boldly confident. Le Brun puts natural sunlight against a moody blue sky — a technically daring move that makes her skin glow with outdoor warmth. A portrait of total artistic self-possession.
National Gallery, London
Primary Colors
The dominant colors that define the overall mood and atmosphere of the work.
Secondary Colors
Supporting colors that add depth, contrast, and visual interest.
Tertiary Colors
Accent and detail colors that complete the composition.
rococoportraitbluewarmfemale-artist