Artwork

Lovisa Ulrika, as Aurora

Lovisa Ulrika, as Aurora, by François Adrien Grasognon Latinville, oil, 1749
Lovisa Ulrika, as Aurora, by François Adrien Grasognon Latinville, oil, 1749

Lovisa Ulrika, as Aurora is an oil painting by François Adrien Grasognon Latinville. It dates from 1749 and is held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Lovisa Ulrika, as Aurora is an oil painting created circa 1749 by François Adrien Grasognon Latinville, portraying Louisa Ulrika of Prussia in a mythological guise, now part of the collection at the Nationalmuseum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Louisa Ulrika of Prussia dressed in regal, blue and gold attire, holding a gold object, with a star above her head and white hair, suggesting an allegorical representation as Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn.

Technique & Style

The work employs chiaroscuro, utilizing strong light and dark contrasts to imbue the scene with depth and dramatic effect, highlighting the subject against a dark background.

History & Provenance

Created around 1749, the painting is currently held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum, though specific details of its ownership history prior to acquisition are not provided here.

Context

The portrayal of a royal figure in mythological attire reflects 18th-century artistic tendencies to elevate nobility through classical associations, with the choice of Aurora possibly symbolizing the dawn of a new era under Louisa Ulrika's influence.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts or notable exhibitions of 'Lovisa Ulrika, as Aurora' are not detailed, it remains a notable example of 18th-century portraiture blending royalty with mythological themes.

Artist & collection

Nationalmuseum

Museum

Nationalmuseum

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