Self-Portrait with Two Pupils, Marie Gabrielle Capet (1761–1818) and Marie Marguerite Carraux de Rosemond (1765–1788)

Labille-Guiard portrays herself working with Marie Gabrielle Capet and Marie Marguerite Carreaux de Rosemond. Successfully exhibited in 1785, the picture has been read as advocacy for women’s artistic education at a time when their Royal Academy membership was restricted.

The artist looks towards the viewer beneath a broad hat. The self-portrait presents her in the act of professional work.

A pupil’s face appears behind her teacher. The young women’s presence makes teaching part of the artist’s public identity.

The second pupil leans forward in a pale covering. Her position conveys attention to the work taking place before her.

Palette and brushes sit near her lap. Working tools directly identify the sitter’s profession and command of the craft.

The satin dress forms large blue-grey folds. Describing the complex fabric also demonstrates the painter’s technical ability.

The tall easel stands on the left. The viewer sees the painter from her model’s side, accompanied by pupils and equipment.

Labille-Guiard entered the Royal Academy in 1783. She taught women, worked for the royal family and remained in France during the Revolution. Institutions succeeding the closed Academy again excluded women.