Humanities and Arts
Man in the Middle: Ingres’s Portrait of Louis-Franc¸ois Bertin at the Salon of 1833 and the Problem of the Juste Milieu
Abstract
In a corner of room 60 on the second floor of the Louvre’s Sully Wing, Ingres’s Portrait of Louis-Franc¸ois Bertin hangs adjacent to his study for Angelica saved by Ruggiero (1819) (Fig. 1).1 In the absence of Ruggiero, Angelica seems to look over her right shoulder, not at the hippogriff-riding knight who despatches a sea monster prior to rescuing her, but at a plump male figure resolutely oblivious to his neighbour and her peril. The juxtaposition of Bertin’s self-confident gaze and relaxed body with Angelica’s vulnerable nakedness could be read as an exercise in iconographical incongruity, if not a moment of curatorial mischief (Fig. 2). But whatever the explanation for the painting’s current display, it is hard not to regard this as a dramatic fall from grace for a work that had occupied the ‘place of honour’ when first shown at the 1833 Salon, and attracted voluminous coverage in the press. Bertin’s relegation to the upper reaches of the Sully Wing is consistent with the assumption that its standing as a work of art has been compromised by the received idea that it is, above all else, a social document: an archetypal image of the newly dominant bourgeoisie of early nineteenth-century France.
Key Questions
What is the central focus of *Man in the Middle: Ingres’s Portrait of Louis-François Bertin at the Salon of 1833 and the Problem of the Juste Milieu*?
The article explores Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres’s portrait of Louis-François Bertin, exhibited at the Salon of 1833, examining how the painting engages with the idea of the "Juste Milieu" (the Middle Way). It discusses the cultural and political significance of the portrait, shedding light on the artistic and social tensions during the July Monarchy in France.
How does Ingres’s portrait of Louis-François Bertin address the concept of the Juste Milieu?
Ingres’s portrait is analyzed in the context of the "Juste Milieu," a political and aesthetic concept that straddles the middle ground between extremes. The painting portrays Bertin as a symbol of moderation and balance, reflecting the tensions of the time and the societal aspirations during the July Monarchy. The concept of the "Juste Milieu" is visually and ideologically explored through the depiction of Bertin's dignified yet approachable appearance.
What is the significance of Louis-François Bertin in the context of this painting?
Louis-François Bertin, the subject of Ingres’s portrait, was a prominent French newspaper publisher and a key figure in the intellectual and political life of the time. The portrait, painted during the July Monarchy, captures Bertin’s moderate and respectable persona, symbolizing the political and social aspirations of the period. Bertin’s middle-ground position is emblematic of the broader societal desire for stability and balance amid political upheaval.
How does Ingres’s artistic style contribute to the portrayal of Bertin's character?
Ingres’s precise and detailed academic style plays a crucial role in portraying Bertin as a dignified and refined figure. The careful rendering of Bertin's features and the use of traditional portraiture techniques convey a sense of seriousness and respectability. The composed and controlled style reflects Bertin’s political stance and the desire for moderation, reinforcing the painting’s ideological message.
What role did the Salon of 1833 play in the reception of the painting?
The Salon of 1833 was a significant event in the French art world, and the exhibition of Ingres’s portrait of Bertin there played a crucial role in its reception. The painting, shown in a politically charged atmosphere, drew attention to the artist’s ability to navigate the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, which mirrored the political climate of the time. The Salon became a space for both aesthetic appreciation and political debate, influencing how the portrait was perceived by the public.
What political tensions are reflected in Ingres’s painting?
The painting reflects the political tensions of the July Monarchy, a period characterized by ideological divides between conservatives and liberals. Ingres’s portrayal of Bertin as a moderate figure can be interpreted as a reflection of the political struggles for balance and unity during a time of division. The "Juste Milieu" concept in the portrait speaks to the broader efforts to reconcile competing political factions and maintain stability.
What is the cultural significance of the "Juste Milieu" during the July Monarchy?
The "Juste Milieu" was a cultural and political ideal that emerged during the July Monarchy, promoting a middle ground between the extremes of the revolutionary past and the conservative monarchy. This notion emphasized moderation and balance, aiming to reconcile various political factions and ensure societal harmony. Ingres’s portrait of Bertin reflects this ideal, capturing the essence of the cultural aspiration for equilibrium in a time of political instability.
How does the portrait of Bertin connect to broader themes in 19th-century French art?
Ingres’s portrait of Bertin is emblematic of broader trends in 19th-century French art, particularly the emphasis on realism, portraiture, and the exploration of social and political themes. The careful attention to detail and the focus on individual character reflect the era's growing interest in human psychology and the role of the individual within the broader societal framework. The portrait also aligns with the period's aesthetic ideals, particularly the neoclassical style, which sought to balance tradition with the emerging demands of modernity.
What role did Ingres play in shaping the portrait genre in 19th-century France?
Ingres was a key figure in the development of portraiture during the 19th century. His academic training and mastery of detail set him apart from other artists of the time. Through portraits like that of Bertin, Ingres elevated portraiture to an intellectual and political level, using the genre to communicate deeper societal and cultural messages. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture both the physical likeness and the inner character of his subjects helped define the portrait genre in the 19th century.
How does the article interpret the intersection of politics, art, and identity in this portrait?
The article examines how Ingres’s portrait of Bertin serves as a medium for exploring the intersection of politics, art, and identity. It argues that the portrait not only captures the physical likeness of Bertin but also reflects the political ideals of the time. By positioning Bertin as a figure embodying the "Juste Milieu," the painting engages with broader themes of political moderation, cultural identity, and the role of art in communicating social and ideological values during a turbulent period in French history.
