Title: Busts of Two Sisters

Artist: Baptiste Pigalle

Title: Busts of Two Sisters: Brigitte Françoise Elisabeth de Lansire and Adélaïde Julie Mirleau de Neuville Date: 1750s Artist: Jean-Baptiste Pigalle (French, 1714–1785) Medium: Marble Description: These busts represent the daughters of the architect Jean-Charles Garnier d'Isle, Pigalle’s friend and colleague. They exemplify the probing realism and sensitive portrayal of personality typical of Pigalle’s approach to portraiture. The sculptor carved the fleshy, dimpled features of the sitters with little idealization. Brigitte, the elder sister, is alert and dignified, while Adélaïde, the younger sister, appears more exuberant and lighthearted. Although probably not intended as pendants, the busts gain a psychological depth and a bond of intimacy when displayed together.