Curatorial Narrative In the early 19th century, Antoine-Franois Sergent’s “Portrait of Angelica Catalani de Valabrgue” (ca. 1815) exemplifies the refined elegance of Neoclassicism, an art movement that sought to revive the classical ideals of ancient Greece and Rome. Executed in a fine brushwork characteristic of the Classical style, this portrait exudes a sense of restraint and sophistication, its sepia tones and beige background evoking a subtle, muted atmosphere. Sergent’s masterful handling of chiaroscuro creates a convincing illusion of three-dimensionality, drawing the viewer into the intimate space of the sitter.When enlarged to 44×70, this portrait assumes a majestic scale that commands attention without overwhelming the surrounding environment. The sepia tones deepen and richen, imbuing the space with a sense of warmth and gravitas, while the beige background assumes a subtle, luminous quality that seems to emanate from wit