Le Billet doux
1778
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1778
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
Le Billet doux is a 1778 ink by Nicolas Delaunay, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This painting depicts a man and two women in an ornate room. The man, dressed in 18th-century attire, stands between the women, handing a letter to one of them. The women are seated, one reading a book and the other receiving the letter. The room features a large mirror, a harp, and a chair, with intricate carvings on the walls and ceiling. The scene is rendered in muted tones, with the focus on the figures and their interactions. The artist's use of light and shadow adds depth to the composition. This painting is a great example of Romanticism, and if you're interested in learning more, you should check out the work of artist Delaunay, Nicolas.