Description
Nicolas De Largillière's Portrait of Jean-Baptiste Rousseau is an 18th-century masterpiece that shows the French poet in all his splendor. Largillière's artistic style is classical and elegant, with a smooth and precise brushwork technique that creates a sense of realism and depth in the image.
The composition of the painting is impressive, with Rousseau sitting in a chair against a dark background that makes him stand out. The position of the poet's hands is especially interesting, as one is holding a feather and the other is placed on his chest, suggesting that he is deeply engaged in his creative work.
Color is another prominent aspect of this artwork. The color palette is rich and vibrant, with shades of brown, green and red combining to create a warm and welcoming image. Light coming through the window behind Rousseau creates a sense of depth and dimension in the painting.
The history of the painting is also interesting. It was commissioned by Rousseau himself in 1712, and it is said that he liked it so much that he hung it in his study for the rest of his life. The painting was acquired by the Louvre Museum in 1929 and has been a popular attraction ever since.
There are lesser known aspects of this painting that are also fascinating. For example, Largillière is said to have included a portrait of himself in the mirror behind Rousseau, suggesting that he had a close relationship with the poet and wanted to be remembered in his artwork.
In short, the painting Portrait of Jean-Baptiste Rousseau by Nicolas De Largillière is a masterpiece that combines a classical artistic style with impressive composition, vibrant color, and a fascinating story. It is a work of art that continues to captivate viewers even after centuries of its creation.