Artwork

Retrato de Luís XVI

Retrato de Luís XVI, by Antoine-François Callet, oil, 1790
Retrato de Luís XVI, by Antoine-François Callet, oil, 1790

Retrato de Luís XVI is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Antoine-François Callet. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the São Paulo Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Retrato de Luís XVI is an oil-on-canvas portrait of the French monarch Louis XVI, created by Antoine-François Callet in 1790. It is now part of the São Paulo Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Louis XVI in an ornate red velvet suit with gold embroidery, blue sash, and purple cape, conveying his royal status through elaborate attire. His neutral expression and direct gaze engage the viewer.

Technique & Style

Callet's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, highlighting the subject's clothing against a dark background. The work is characteristic of the Rococo style, with its emphasis on ornate detail and opulent textures.

History & Provenance

Antoine-François Callet, a French painter and official portraitist to Louis XVI, produced the work during his tenure as court painter. Callet was a winner of the 1764 grand prix de Rome and became an academician by 1779.

Artist & collection

Artist

Antoine-François Callet

Antoine-François Callet (1741–1823), generally known as Antoine Callet, was a French painter of portraits and allegorical works, who acted as official portraitist to Louis XVI.