Rose-Adélaïde Ducreux

Rose-Adélaïde Ducreux (1761 – July 26, 1802) was a French painter and musician, born in Paris. She was the eldest daughter of Joseph Ducreux, with whom she also studied. She showed her works at the Louvre salons in 1791, 1793, 1795, 1798, and 1799. She was accomplished both as a performer and as a composer.

Biography In 1786, Ducreux first exhibited at one of Pahin de la Blancherie's bi-weekly exhibitions, known as the Salon de la Correspondance. Her self-portraits often included musical and artistic attributes. The following are known pieces of her work.

Self-Portrait with a Harp Created in 1791, Self-Portrait with a Harp is painted in oil on canvas, with the dimensions 76 x 50 ¾ in (193 x 128.9 cm). This work has been identified with a self-portrait that Durceux exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1791. The portrait was made around the time of the French Revolution, so to some it may seem odd that the painting depicts such a luxurious garment at a time when the population of France revolted against luxury and totalitarianism. However, the painting represents the transitional time of 1791; having the luxury of fabrics contrast the simplicity of the background. Portrait d'une femme tenant sa fille sur ses genoux Painted in oil on canvas, its dimensions are 77 x 51.2 in (195 ½ x 130 cm). This work depicts a woman holding a child bearing flowers. The simple background greatly contrasts with a luxury of fabrics. Portrait of a Lady Painted in oil on canvas, its dimensions 75 ½ x 50 ½ in (194 x 128 cm). Portrait of Diane de la Vaupaliere Created in 1790, it is painted in oil on canvas and shows a portrait of a lady seated before a harp and reading some books. The major color of the painting is brown and in contrast, the lady in white looks like an angel. The painting gives people a peaceful feeling and is now in the collection of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.