Self-Portrait With Two Pupils

Adélaïde Labille-Guiard "Self-Portrait with Two Pupils" 1785 

This stunning painting, in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was produced by Adélaïde Labille-Guiard just two years after she was admitted to the prestigious ranks of French Academicians. At that point, only four women at a time were eligible for membership in the French Academy, and this painting is thought to be a subtle propaganda piece for the rights of women. Madame Labille-Guiard portrays herself resplendent in full feminine regalia yet at the same time with great dignity and strength of character. She is at work on a large canvas watched by two admiring students, Marie Gabrielle Capet (1761–1818) and Marie-Margeurite Carreaux de Rosemond (died 1788.)  Known as a witty conversationalist and intellectual, Madame Labille-Guiard (1749-1803) never ceased to quietly yet firmly champion the rights of women. Some might say that her most persuasive argument must certainly be her own ouevre of superbly executed masterworks.  

Marie Gabrielle Capet "Atelier of Madame Vincent (Labille-Guiard)"  1808

Years later Marie Gabrielle Capet paid homage to her beloved teacher with this painting depicting herself and Labille-Guiard (re-married and known as Madame Vincent) at work in her busy studio. This piece is in the Neue Pinakothek in Munich.