Portrait of a Lady, French 18 Century, Follower of Nicholas De Largilliere (1656-1746)

Oil on canvas

This huge scale portrait eloquently depicting a sophisticated lady with the fashionable fontage hairstyle is striking in its portrayal of the sumptuous fabrics and their decorative richness. The deep blue velvet passages with bold strokes worthy of the Flemish masters whom Largillière, and also Henry Millet (c.1690-1756) who was a pupil of Largilliere, admired and the elaborate flowing mantle was often used. The bright colours in the foreground are softened somewhat by the autumnal hues of the landscape in the background, in a superbly effective harmony that brings out the dignity and beauty of the model. An attractive portrait and judging from the scale, painted to make a statement. Nicolas de Largilliere who was commissioned by various aristocratic and noble individuals and was one of the most prominent French portraitists of the day. Presented in a solid antique gilt frame.

Measurements: Height 155cm, Width 121cm framed (Height 61”, Width 47.5” framed)

Nicolas de Largillière (1656-1746) was born in Paris France, trained in Antwerp, and had three periods working in London. Nicolas de Largillière's long career spanned the reigns of both Louis XIV and Louis XV, during which time he established himself as a leading portrait painter and was Dircector of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in Paris between 1734-1735 and 1738-1742.

Circa 1674 he went to London were he met Sir Peter Lely. His work captured the attention of Charles II who was a fervent collector of the arts and Charles (and subsequently King James II) planned to retain Largilliere for further commissions and even offered him the prestigious position of keeper of the Royal Collection, but he eventually returned to Paris and continued to paint various aristocratic and noble individuals. His depictions of women are particularly striking for their introspective character and decorative richness.

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