Artwork

Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751)

Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751), by Georg Friedrich Schmidt, oil, 1750
Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751), by Georg Friedrich Schmidt, oil, 1750

Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Georg Friedrich Schmidt. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

This oil portrait, created around 1750 by Georg Friedrich Schmidt, is a representation of Julien Offray de la Mettrie, a figure from the 18th century. The work is currently part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Julien Offray de la Mettrie with a warm, slightly tilted smile, conveying a sense of approachability. His attire, consisting of a dark jacket and white shirt, is complemented by a ruffled cap, suggesting a casual yet thoughtful demeanor.

Technique & Style

Schmidt employed chiaroscuro to create depth and dimensionality, set against a dark background that accentuates the subject's features. This technique enhances the overall visual presence of the portrait.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1750, the portrait is attributed to Georg Friedrich Schmidt. It is now housed at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin, as part of its permanent collection.

Context

While specific contextual details about the commission or the subject's significance at the time of painting are not provided, the portrait reflects the artistic trends of mid-18th-century portraiture, emphasizing character through subtle expression and lighting.

Legacy

The legacy of this portrait lies in its representation of de la Mettrie and its exemplification of Schmidt's skill in capturing personality through portraiture, though detailed information on its broader impact or exhibitions is not specified.

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Artist & collection

Portrait of Georg Friedrich Schmidt

Artist

Georg Friedrich Schmidt

Georg Friedrich Schmidt (24 January 1712 - 25 January 1775) was a German engraver, etcher and pastel painter, in the Rococo style.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751)?

Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751) was painted by Georg Friedrich Schmidt in 1750.

Where can I see Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751)?

Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751) is held by Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

What movement is Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751)?

Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751) is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751)?

Museum-quality prints of Julien Offray de la Mettrie (1709-1751) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.