Marie-Gabrielle Capet Paintings

Marie-Gabrielle Capet was a French Neoclassical painter born on September 6, 1761, in Lyon, France. She came from a modest background and was largely self-taught in the early years of her artistic education. Capet moved to Paris in her late teens, which was a significant step in her career as it brought her into contact with the vibrant art scene of the French capital.

In Paris, Capet became the student of Adélaïde Labille-Guiard, a prominent female artist who was also an advocate for women's admission to the Académie Royale. Under Labille-Guiard's mentorship, Capet honed her skills, particularly in the realm of portraiture, becoming one of the most skilled portraitists of her time. She often depicted her subjects with a strong emphasis on realism and psychological depth, a testament to her keen observation and technical prowess.

Capet never married and lived a quiet life, focused on her art and her close association with Labille-Guiard. Her works include portraits of notable figures of her time, as well as domestic scenes that often feature women engaged in artistic pursuits. Despite the limitations imposed on women artists during the 18th and early 19th centuries, Capet managed to achieve recognition and success. She exhibited her works at the Paris Salon on several occasions, receiving positive reviews from critics and the public alike.

Marie-Gabrielle Capet continued to paint until her death on November 1, 1818, leaving behind a legacy that not only reflects her artistic talent but also provides a glimpse into the lives of women during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era. Her works are preserved in various museums and collections, serving as a testament to her skill and dedication to art.