Who painted Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux?

Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux was painted by Elizabeth Montgomery in 1951.

Where can I see Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux?

Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux?

Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux is associated with Realism.

Artwork

Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in <i>The Madwoman of Chaillot</i> by Jean Giraudoux

Elizabeth Montgomery , 1951

Martita Hunt as Countess Aurelia in <i>The Madwoman of Chaillot</i> by Jean Giraudoux is a paint painting by the Realist artist Elizabeth Montgomery. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The oil painting portrays actress Martita Hunt in costume as Countess Aurelia from Jean Giraudoux’s play The Madwoman of Chaillot.

About this work

Overview

The oil painting portrays actress Martita Hunt in costume as Countess Aurelia from Jean Giraudoux’s play The Madwoman of Chaillot. Rendered in a three‑quarter view, the portrait captures her head and shoulders against a dark green backdrop, emphasizing the elaborate hat and jewelry she holds in her left hand.

Subject & Meaning

Hunt is depicted in a richly ornamented hat featuring pink and white accents, complemented by a strand of pearls. Her expression conveys calm confidence, and her direct gaze engages the viewer, reflecting the dignified poise of the Countess character she embodied on stage.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the work employs a muted, dark background that isolates the figure, allowing the vivid details of the costume, feathers, flowers, and high‑collared jacket, to stand out. The brushwork balances smooth modeling of the face with more textured treatment of the hat and accessories.

History & Provenance

The portrait entered the collection of the British Theatre Museum Association as a donation from Catherine Hunt in July 1969. Its acquisition links the painting to the museum’s focus on theatrical heritage and preserves a visual record of a notable stage performance.