The Metropolitan Museum of Art - Special Exhibitions

	Gilbert Stuart Stuart in New York (1793–94)

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		Gilbert Stuart (American, 1755–1828) Matilda Stoughton de Jaudenes y Nebot, 1794 Oil on canvas; 50 5/8 x 39 1/2 in. (128.6 x 100.3 cm) The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Rogers Fund, 1907 (07.76)

Stuart's characterization of Matilda de Jaudenes (1778–after 1822) is difficult to assess. With her ornate coiffure, snowflake piochas (hairpins), and complicated gown, she is like a doll, dressed up and lovely to see. The costume is not Spanish, but rather contrived and embellished for sumptuous distinction. If she seems ill at ease in her costume, that sense has only added to the idea that her husband was wicked and conniving. With this portrait, Jaudenes purchased the means to display his wife as his accoutrement, yet another adornment that could advance his career.