Object Image

General Louis-Étienne Dulong de Rosnay

Ingres’s portrait of Dulong de Rosnay is exceptional in its detailed recording of the sitter’s dress and accessories—areas the artist usually treated in a summary manner. This specificity is appropriate, as Dulong de Rosnay’s identity and rank (a decorated general, he was later named Baron de l’Empire) are expressed through his attire. His military uniform and the medallions that emblazon his chest signal his valor and service to the empire of Napoleon I, while his sword and arm sling tell of the brave battles he fought and the wounds he endured.

Credit: Gift of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 2012...

1818
Graphite (hard and soft pencils) on wove paper with slightly browned edges
45.1 x 34.3cm
2012.150.9
Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2019

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Permanent collection