Description
The painting Official Laying of the Cornerstone of the New Church of Sainte-Geneviève by Pierre-Antoine De Machy is a masterpiece showing the ceremony of laying the first stone of the new church of Sainte-Geneviève in Paris in 1764. The painting It is a sample of the Rococo artistic style, which is characterized by its elegance, refinement and exuberance.
The composition of the painting is impressive, with a diagonal perspective that takes the viewer from the crowd in the foreground to the building under construction in the background. The central figure is the Archbishop of Paris, who holds the cornerstone as he blesses the ceremony. The other characters in the painting are dressed in lavish costumes and are in elegant poses, reflecting the Rococo style.
The coloring of the painting is vibrant and attractive, with a range of pastel and bright tones that create a happy and festive atmosphere. The architectural details of the building under construction are rendered with great precision and realism, demonstrating the artist's technical skill.
The painting Official Laying of the Cornerstone of the New Church of Sainte-Geneviève is also a work of great historical importance, as it shows a key moment in the history of France and the Catholic Church in the 18th century. The construction of the Sainte-Geneviève church was a major project of King Louis XV, who wanted to honor the patron saint of Paris and create a monument to rival St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
Despite the historical and artistic importance of this painting, it is little known outside of France and is rarely shown in international exhibitions. However, for those who have the opportunity to view it, the Official Laying of the Cornerstone of the New Church of Sainte-Geneviève is an impressive work displaying the beauty and elegance of the Rococo style and the technical skill of the artist Pierre-Antoine De Machy.