Artwork

Portrait of the battle-painter Ignace-Jacques Parrocel

Portrait of the battle-painter Ignace-Jacques Parrocel, by Jacob van Schuppen, oil, 1716
Portrait of the battle-painter Ignace-Jacques Parrocel, by Jacob van Schuppen, oil, 1716

Portrait of the battle-painter Ignace-Jacques Parrocel is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jacob van Schuppen. It dates from 1716 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1716 oil painting is a portrait of Ignace-Jacques Parrocel, a battle painter, created by Jacob van Schuppen, a French-Austrian court painter. The work is characterized by its Rococo style and is part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Ignace-Jacques Parrocel in formal attire, with a dark, fur-trimmed coat and a tall, powdered white wig. He holds a small fur muff, and behind him, an easel displays one of his works—a landscape of horseback riders in a stormy scene. Parrocel's serious expression contrasts with a gesture that suggests a hint of engagement or direction.

Technique & Style

The painting employs chiaroscuro, with strong front lighting illuminating Parrocel's face against a dark background, accentuating his features. This technique, combined with the subject's attire and the showcased landscape, reflects the Rococo style's blend of elegance and subtle narrative depth.

History & Provenance

Created in 1716 by Jacob van Schuppen, who served as a court painter in Vienna, the portrait is now housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Van Schuppen was renowned for his portraits, history paintings, and genre scenes during the early 18th century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacob van Schuppen

Artist

Jacob van Schuppen

Jacob van Schuppen (26 January 1670 – 29 January 1751) was a French-Austrian painter who was known for his portraits, history paintings and genre scenes. He was court painter in Vienna.