Élisabeth Vigée-Le Brun (1755-1842) is a virtually self-taught artist who quickly climbed the rungs of the French aristocracy to secure her artistic success. With a long list of royal patrons, she produced over 800 paintings in her career.

Although her portraits might look traditional us, Le Brun broke through many established norms in portraiture. For example, she introduced a feeling of warmth through welcoming gestures and slightly open-mouthed smiles that were both shocking at the time. The naturalism and relaxing qualities of Vigée Le Brun’s portraits soon became immensely popular among the French aristocracy and a trademark of her style. Thanks to this woman, the road was paved for more shock and awe at the Paris Salon.

Content produced by: Art Heroes