Nicolas De Largillière (1656-1746) Portrait Of Lady Of Quality

NICOLAS DE LARGILLIÈRE (1656-1746) Portrait of a Lady of Quality Oil on oval canvas 82 x 64 cm Circa 1697 We would like to thank Mr. Dominique Brême, director of the museum of the Departmental Domain of Sceaux and specialist in Nicolas de Largillière, for having kindly confirmed to us the authenticity of this painting which he will include in his catalog raisonné in preparation. Nicolas de Largillière, essential portrait painter from the end of the reign of Louis XIV until the beginning of that of Louis XV, did not learn to paint in France. It is in Antwerp, in the studio of Goubeau, and in England, in that of Lely that he will be noticed and at the latter that he will learn the art of the portrait. He will be, with Hyacinthe Rigaud, the most popular portrait painter of his time. This unpublished portrait, never out of its walls, immerses us in the poetic and fiery way of Largillière to immortalize an illustrious young woman represented more alive and more beautiful than ever. He flatters his model with a warm palette with which he dares to rub shoulders with primary colors. The thick drapes with abundant folds fill the composition and contrast with the pleasant freshness of her complexion. Unfortunately the identity remains unknown but if we believe the provenance, a Bourbon or a Montmorency among others could be the model.