Young Woman 1732 - 1776

Jacques François Joseph Saly created this marble bust titled "Young Woman" sometime in the 18th century. Saly sculpted this bust during the height of the Rococo period, a time when art celebrated beauty, elegance, and pleasure. The woman’s gentle gaze, the soft curves of her face, and the floral crown all speak to this era. But, who was this young woman? And what does her representation tell us about the status and expectations of women in the 18th century? During this time, women were often portrayed as objects of beauty and virtue, reinforcing societal norms that confined them to domestic roles. While seemingly harmless, such representations played a crucial role in shaping gender roles and expectations. The artist has captured the likeness of a young woman, but also the expectations of feminine identity during his time.