Portrait of Mlle Rachel

"Portrait of Mlle Rachel" is an oil painting by William Etty that exquisitely captures the French actress Élisa Rachel Félix, known as Mademoiselle Rachel. This evocative piece, created in the 1840s, is housed in the York Art Gallery. Rachel is depicted in a sorrowful pose, gazing away with tears in her eyes, and the painting is believed to be unfinished. It is thought that Etty may have completed it in a single sitting during one of Rachel's visits to London.

William Etty, born in 1787, was a renowned English artist celebrated for his depictions of nude figures in historical and mythological contexts. While he primarily focused on history paintings, he occasionally created portraits. Mademoiselle Rachel, born in 1821, was a distinguished actress in France, famous for her emotionally charged performances. She traveled to London several times in the 1840s, where she likely met Etty through mutual acquaintances.

The painting captures Rachel's tragic persona, highlighting her emotional depth and theatrical presence. Despite its unfinished appearance, art critics praise the work for its sensitivity and insight. Etty's public portrait exhibitions were limited during his lifetime, and "Mlle Rachel" was likely among the paintings sold after his death. Although Etty's popularity waned after he passed away, his legacy in the art world endures.

Mademoiselle Rachel continued to be a prominent figure in French society until her death in 1858. The painting's ownership history is not well-documented, but it was eventually acquired by the York Art Gallery in 1961. The artwork was featured in a major Etty exhibition in 2011–12. Interestingly, another portrait of Mademoiselle Rachel attributed to Etty is held by the Courtauld Institute of Art. "Portrait of Mlle Rachel" remains a significant piece in the York Art Gallery collection, showcasing Etty's talent in capturing the essence of this renowned actress.