PXL_20240329_234200503

Portrait of Gabriel Bernard de Rieux, 1739-1741
Maurice Quentin de La Tour
French, 1704-1788

Pastel and opaque watercolor on blue paper, laid down on canvas

Seated among an array of opulent objects, de Rieux looks toward the viewer while holding a large, open book. Each item depicted in this portrait was deliberately selected to indicate the sitter’s wealth, power, and intellectual pursuits, while also showcasing La Tour’s skill.