NICOLAS DE LARGILLIÈRE (PARIS 1656-1746)

Nicolas de Largillière, along with his contemporary Hyacinthe Rigaud, epitomized French portraiture in the Grand Siècle. While the latter dedicated himself to a royal clientele, Largillière catered to the demands of the growing numbers of high bourgeoisie, financiers and politicians. This painting is testament to the artist’s virtuoso rendering of fabrics and attention to their minutest of details. The man stands before a crimson curtain and hemicycle lined with ionic pilasters wearing a fashionable powdered periwig and flame-colored silk velvet gown with richly brocaded lining, over a crisp linen shirt with lace trim. Through both surrounding and dress, Largillière impressed upon the viewer his sitter's high social status and wealth.