Artwork

Pierre du Cambout (1664-1710), duc de Coislin (2e, 1702-1710), marquis de Ponchateau, Membre de l'Académie française (n° 131, 5 octobre 1702)

Pierre du Cambout (1664-1710), duc de Coislin (2e, 1702-1710), marquis de Ponchateau, Membre de l'Académie française (n° 131, 5 octobre 1702) is an oil painting by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Palace of Versailles. This portrait, executed in oil paint, depicts Pierre du Cambout, 2nd Duke of Coislin, a member of the French Academy.

About this work

Overview

This portrait, executed in oil paint, depicts Pierre du Cambout, 2nd Duke of Coislin, a member of the French Academy. The subject is prominently displayed against a dark background, drawing attention to his attire and demeanor.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait captures Pierre du Cambout, highlighting his social status through his ornate black hat adorned with red feathers, white scarf, and dark jacket with gold embroidery. His serious expression and direct gaze convey gravity and importance.

Technique & Style

The artist utilizes a dark, muted background to create a strong contrast, emphasizing the subject's figure and details of his clothing. This compositional choice focuses the viewer's attention on the duke's personage.

History & Provenance

Pierre du Cambout, depicted here, held the title of Duke of Coislin from 1702 until his death in 1710 and was elected to the French Academy in 1702. The painting's specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

While the subject is Pierre du Cambout, the work might be contextualized alongside other portraits of French nobility from the era, such as those of Louis XIV, to understand the representation of power and status in 18th-century French art.

Legacy

The legacy of this portrait lies in its representation of Pierre du Cambout and the aesthetic conventions of portraying nobility during the late 17th to early 18th centuries in France, though its broader impact or influence is not detailed here.