Saint-Mémin Collection of Portraits, Group 4

Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts fifteen circular portrait sketches of individuals in profile position. The people have varied facial features and hairstyles typical of the 18th or early 19th centuries. The men have curled or tied back hair, while the women have elaborate headpieces or curled hairstyles. They wear formal attire, with men in coats, high collars, and cravats, and women in dresses with lace and hats or ribbons. Some women appear to be wearing earrings. No objects are visible in the portraits. Each portrait is labeled with names, integrated into the sketch or placed below it, within an organized grid format against a plain backdrop. The portraits are enclosed within circular frames and separated by lines in a contrasting grid pattern, giving them a historical collection appearance.