Portrait of Madame X (Madame X)

“Portrait of Madame X,” also known as “Madame X,” is an oil painting created by the American artist John Singer Sargent in 1884. The painting measures 234 cm x 109 cm and features a portrait of Madame Pierre Gautreau, a famous Parisian socialite.

John Singer Sargent was a prominent portrait painter of his time, and his other notable works include “Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose,” “Lady Agnew of Lochnaw,” and “The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit.”

In “Madame X,” Sargent combines traditional portraiture with a daring, modern approach, creating controversy upon its debut. The painting focuses on Madame Gautreau’s pale skin, provocative dress, and elegant pose, making for a striking and evocative composition.

After its initial reception, Sargent repainted the portrait, addressing the controversy by giving Madame Gautreau straps that eventually became the focal point of the painting. Today, “Portrait of Madame X” is considered one of Sargent’s masterpieces and is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

The painting remains a prime example of the intersection between traditional and modern art and continues to be celebrated for its daring and innovative approach.