I painted a Madame de Pompadour portrait for the BBC for an episode of Doctor Who. It is the actor Sophia Myles as Madame de Pompadour in the episode The Girl in the Fireplace.
The episode takes place in multiple time periods as the Tenth Doctor, Rose Tyler and Mickey Smith find time windows leading to 18th century France and Clockwork Droids use them to stalk Madame de Pompadour through her life. Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies described the episode as a love story for the Doctor. The Girl in the Fireplace was well-received by most critics despite the time constraints imposed on the plot. The episode was nominated for a Nebula Award and won the 2007 Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation, Short Form.The Girl in the Fireplace – tardis.fandom.com
I referenced one of François Boucher‘s paintings as a study, and painted Sophia’s face using one of her publicity photos. I would’ve preferred to have photographed her in full costume and wig, but sadly time didn’t permit.
Madame de Pompadour was a mistress, friend and advisor to Louis XV, remaining with him until her death in 1764. Introduced in the Court by well-placed connections, she caught the King’s eye and soon became his official mistress.Madame de Pompadour – Chateau de Versailles
It was in shot for all of 20 seconds right at the end!
Here is the Madame de Pompadour portrait in situ on the Doctor Who Website