Who painted Portrait of Mme de Staël?

Portrait of Mme de Staël was painted by Marie-Éléonore Godefroid in 1840.

Where can I see Portrait of Mme de Staël?

Portrait of Mme de Staël is held by Palace of Versailles.

What movement is Portrait of Mme de Staël?

Portrait of Mme de Staël is associated with French Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of Mme de Staël?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of Mme de Staël are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Portrait of Mme de Staël

Marie-Éléonore Godefroid , 1840

Portrait of Mme de Staël is an oil painting by the French Romanticist artist Marie-Éléonore Godefroid. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the Palace of Versailles. Created in 1840 by French artist Marie‑Éléonore Godefroid, this oil portrait presents Germaine de Staël, a leading intellectual of her time.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1840 by French artist Marie‑Éléonore Godefroid, this oil portrait presents Germaine de Staël, a leading intellectual of her time. Executed within the Romantic era, the work is part of the collection at the Palace of Versailles and exemplifies Godefroid’s focus on individual likenesses.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, Germaine de Staël, appears in a pale yellow dress with puffed sleeves, a red shawl draped over her arm, and a distinctive red‑and‑white turban atop a high coiffure. She holds a small sprig of greenery, a subtle emblem of vitality, while her composed expression reflects the poise associated with her public persona.

Technique & Style

Godefroid employs a restrained palette, allowing the bright dress and turban to stand out against a dark, unadorned backdrop. Careful modulation of light across the face and hands creates a chiaroscuro effect that models form and adds depth, while the smooth handling of oil paint renders the textures of fabric and skin with clarity.

History & Provenance

After its completion, the portrait entered the royal holdings and eventually became part of the Palace of Versailles’ collection, where it remains on display. Godefroid’s reputation as a portraitist of notable figures, including members of the French court, facilitated the painting’s acquisition by the state.