Who painted Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768)?

Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768) was painted by François Albert Stiémart in 1726.

Where can I see Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768)?

Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768) is held by Palace of Versailles.

What movement is Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768)?

Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768) is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768)

François Albert Stiémart , 1726

Porträt der Marie Leszczyńska (1703-1768) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist François Albert Stiémart. It dates from 1726 and is held in the collection of the Palace of Versailles.

About this work

Overview

François Albert Stiémart’s oil portrait, executed in 1726, presents Marie Leszczyńska, queen consort of France from 1725 until her death in 1768. The work is part of the collection at the Palace of Versailles, where it remains on display as a representation of early‑18th‑century court portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is shown in an elaborate blue and gold gown trimmed with white lace, a crown perched on her head and a smaller crown held in her right hand. The composition emphasizes her royal status and the ceremonial duties associated with her role as queen, while the restrained pose conveys dignity and authority.

Technique & Style

Stiémart employs a chiaroscuro treatment that models the figure against a darkened backdrop, allowing the luminous fabrics and metallic accents to emerge with depth. The careful rendering of textures—silk, lace, and metal—demonstrates the artist’s skill in capturing material richness within the conventions of French court portraiture.

History & Provenance

Created shortly after Marie Leszczyńska’s accession, the portrait entered the royal collection and has remained associated with the Versailles estate. Its continuous presence in the palace’s galleries reflects the historical practice of preserving images of reigning monarchs for both ceremonial and documentary purposes.