Jacques Louis David
French, 1748­1825
Madame François Buron (Marie-Josèphe Fromont)
1769
Oil on canvas
66.3 x 55.5 cm
Restricted gift of Mrs. Albert J. Beveridge in memory of her mother, Abby Louise Spencer (Mrs. Augustus Eddy), 1963.205

The artist David spent many hours during his childhood with his aunt, Mme Buron. She encouraged David to become an artist, instead of a lawyer as his father wished. 

Mme Buron’s face—often the focus of attention and admiration in the portrait of a woman—is partially covered by her hand. Instead of her looks, David focuses on his aunt’s learning and intelligence.