Souvenirs de Madame Louise-Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun, Tome premier

In this memoir the author looks back on the moments that shaped her lifelong devotion to art, beginning with a childhood spent in a convent where she filled every spare minute with sketches on walls, notebooks, and even sand. A supportive father, himself an accomplished painter, recognized her talent early, urging her that she would become a painter—or never be one at all. These early experiences set the tone for a vibrant career that would later carry her across the salons of Paris, Rome, and beyond.

Written as a series of letters to a close friend, the narrative is peppered with vivid portraits of the artists, aristocrats, and intellectuals who populated her world, offering listeners a glimpse into the social tapestry of 18th‑century Europe. The author's voice is intimate yet witty, recalling light‑hearted anecdotes—such as her father's flamboyant costume chase—while also reflecting on the discipline that sustained her through fragile health and long absences from family. As the recollections unfold, the listener is invited to share the joy and curiosity that propelled her from convent sketches to the courts of royalty.