Sargent’s Madame X is not just a socialite,

she is rather the embodiment of French aristocracy.

 

Pale as moonlight,

poised, brimming with dignity;

her crown is an ode to the huntress.

 

And yet, her dark and dangerously low-cut dress,

the accentuated curves

sing of a sweet and suggestive mystery.

 

She is at once formidable and submissive,

the tempest and tranquility.