Artwork
Portrait of a Boy with a Book
Portrait of a Boy with a Book is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean-Baptiste Perronneau. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Portrait of a Boy with a Book is an oil painting created in 1740 by Jean-Baptiste Perronneau, a French artist predominantly recognized for his pastel portraits. The work is part of the Rococo movement and is currently housed in the State Hermitage Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a serene young boy intensely focused on reading a book at a table. His calm demeanor and engaged posture convey a sense of intellectual curiosity and quiet contemplation.
Technique & Style
Perronneau employed chiaroscuro to achieve depth and dimensionality. The painting showcases meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the boy’s attire and the book, highlighting the artist’s craftsmanship.
History & Provenance
Created in 1740, the painting is now part of the State Hermitage Museum’s collection. Notably, it diverges from Perronneau’s more common medium of pastels.
Context
As a Rococo piece, it reflects the movement’s emphasis on intimacy and everyday life, though the subject’s quiet, introspective nature adds a unique layer of solemnity to the typical lightheartedness of the style.
Legacy
While specific impacts of Portrait of a Boy with a Book on subsequent art are not widely documented, it contributes to the broader legacy of Rococo portraiture and highlights Perronneau’s versatility beyond pastels.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Baptiste Perronneau (French pronunciation:; c. 1716 – 19 November 1783) was a French Rococo painter and draughtsman, best known for his portrait pastels.
