Victim

VICTIM PROFILE
Name: Madame X (Madame Pierre Gautreau)
Info: 1883–84; John Singer Sargent (American, 1856–1925); Arthur Hoppock Hearn Fund, 1916 (16.53)
Potential Clues: Wedding band; hair ornament; repainted shoulder strap (originally falling down her arm)
Fun Fact: Madame X (also known as Virginie Avegno Gautreau and Madame Pierre Gautreau) was known in Paris for her artful appearance and daring personal style. This portrait created a scandal when it was first exhibited. When selling it to the Met, John Singer Sargent commented, “I suppose it is the best thing I have done,” but asked the Museum to disguise the sitter’s name.