Saint-Mémin Collection of Portraits, Group 6

Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin

National Gallery of Art

The image features fifteen oval framed bust portraits arranged in a grid of three rows and five columns. Each person is depicted in profile, showing the upper part of their bodies including their heads, shoulders, and upper chest. The individuals are primarily positioned facing either left or right, seated in an upright posture. The portraits mainly depict individuals with European facial features, short hairstyles consistent with the late 18th century, and some with powdered wigs or tied-back hair in short ponytails. One woman in the portraits has curly hair adorned with ribbons and flowers, wearing a high-collared dress with lace embellishments. The individuals are dressed in formal attire typical of the period, including high-collared coats with tall collars and cravats or neck scarves. There is no visible jewelry or objects being held by any of the figures. The background for each portrait is plain with a simple oval shape outlining each individual, contrasting with the textured clothing and hair details. The portraits are labeled with names written beneath each person. The entire collection is set on a light brown background serving as the mount for the grid of portraits.