Who painted Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste?

Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste was painted by Hubert François Gravelot in 1736.

Where can I see Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste?

Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste?

Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste

Hubert François Gravelot , 1736

Du plus grand des Romains voilà ce qui vous reste is a graphite drawing by the Baroque artist Hubert François Gravelot. It dates from 1736 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Du plus grand des Romans voilà ce qui vous reste is a graphite drawing on laid paper created by Hubert-François Gravelot in 1736.

About this work

Overview

Du plus grand des Romans voilà ce qui vous reste is a graphite drawing on laid paper created by Hubert-François Gravelot in 1736. The work captures a lively scene of elegantly dressed individuals in a crowded setting, with additional figures hovering near a columned building in the background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject appears to depict a moment of communal interaction among the upper echelons of society, given the attire of the figures. The title, translating to 'Behold what remains of the greatest of Romans,' may ironically contrast the grandeur implied by the reference to ancient Rome with the everyday, mundane interactions of the depicted crowd.

Technique & Style

Executed in loose, quick graphite lines, the drawing embodies the lighthearted, decorative qualities of the Rococo style. Subtle shading is used to suggest facial features and textile folds, prioritizing the conveyance of the scene's dynamism over meticulous detail.

History & Provenance

Created in 1736 by French artist Hubert-François Gravelot, who had relocated to London in 1732. During his time in London, Gravelot played a pivotal role in introducing Rococo aesthetics to British visual culture through his illustrations and engravings.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hubert François Gravelot

Hubert-François Bourguignon, commonly known as Gravelot (26 March 1699 – 20 April 1773), was a French engraver, a famous book illustrator, designer and drawing-master.