“Anne Josephe Bonniere de la Mosson, the Duchess of Chaulnes, as Hebe. Hebe, the Grecian goddess of youth, was also known as “the cupbearer”; she served the nectar and ambrosia to the gods – that’s the reason why Anne is pictured here with a golden cup and serving glass. Her costume is pseudo-classical, with a breast exposed. Her blue cape/covering possibly signifies calmness or serenity. It could also mean “adoration”, which would fit well with the theme of youth (who doesn’t adore youth?).
This type of classical portraiture was very popular, especially in France, with the aristocracy of the rococo period. You can always tell, of course, rococo-era themed classical portraits because of the hair, usually – despite the “classical” influences, the hair is always powdered in a very 18th century way.”
