Portrait de Theresia Cabarrus (1773-1835), épouse Tallien, puis princesse de Caraman-Chimay

This 1805 portrait of Thérésia Cabarrus at the Musée Carnavalet depicts one of the most famous women of the Revolutionary era. Known as “Our Lady of Thermidor” for her role in ending the Terror, Tallien later became Princess de Caraman-Chimay, and Gérard’s portrait records her beauty and celebrity during the Empire years. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays polished Neoclassical finish inherited from David, with a more flattering and commercially appealing elegance that prioritized graceful presentation over moral severity.

Gérard captures the legendary beauty with characteristic luminous technique. The portrait’s elegant composition and warm handling of flesh tones create an image worthy of one of the era’s most celebrated women.