Laura at Seven 1887

Carolus-Duran painted "Laura at Seven" with oil on canvas, depicting a young girl in the attire of a woman of high society. Portraits like this one reveal a lot about the social aspirations of the rising bourgeoisie in late 19th-century France. This was a time when industrialization led to new wealth, and families sought ways to display their status through art patronage. The girl's elaborate hat and lace collar speak volumes about the family's affluence and their desire to emulate the aristocracy. Carolus-Duran, as a sought-after portraitist, played a key role in shaping this visual language of class. To truly understand this painting, we might look at fashion plates from the period, or consult family archives to uncover the sitter's background. By doing so, we can better grasp how art served as a marker of social identity.