This playful early 18th-century half-length French school portrait depicts a bewigged gentleman pointing to, what appears to be, a marble tablet. It’s somewhat reminiscent of works by Gilles Allou (1670-1751).
Attired in an exceedingly well-tailored ensemble, he’s evidently a man of considerable means. His dark blue velvet coat, probably a ‘justacorps’, is embellished with horizontal bands of elaborate gold embroidery. While the lucious patterned silk, draped across his right arm, is also elegantly crafted. The glimpse of a red waistcoat is partially obscured by an ornate lace collar. For context, it’s interesting to compare his outfit with that worn by the King of France in ‘Madame de Ventadour with Louis XIV and his Heirs’ from the same period.
At first glance, we speculated as to whether he could be pointing at a blank canvas, and perhaps this is a self-portrait. However, the absence of a brush makes this theory unlikely. It’s plausible that he could be involved in the marble trade and indicating, via his confident expression and lavish attire, that his success is built upon the superior quality of his offering. In the early to mid-18th century, marble was required for both architectural and decorative elements, with the emphasis placed upon a revival of classical styles.
During the conservation process, a pentimento (a change of direction) was uncovered, whereby the hands were originally holding a smaller tablet. It’s intriguing to consider whether this adjustment was made for compositional purposes or following consultation with the patron. Did the sitter ask for more emphasis on his product?
Held in a splendid Louis XIV carved frame with extensive foliate embellishments, which is probably original.
Medium: Oil on canvas laid on board
Overall size: 34½” x 40½” / 88cm x 103cm
Year of creation: c. 1715
Labels & Inscriptions: Partial illegible label on reverse.
Provenance: Caroline & Sven Olin, Stockholm, Sweden / Private collection, Sweden.
Condition: Cleaned. Revarnished. Canvas relined and laid on board. Historic restorations including areas of bitumen (used during the 19th century to enhance darker tones). Craquelure throughout. The paint layer is stable. Frame with various marks and showing its age.
Our reference: BRV2098
