Artwork

Portrait of Marie Zéphyrine of France

Portrait of Marie Zéphyrine of France, by Jean-Marc Nattier, oil, 1751
Portrait of Marie Zéphyrine of France, by Jean-Marc Nattier, oil, 1751

Portrait of Marie Zéphyrine of France is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean-Marc Nattier. It dates from 1751 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Marie Zéphyrine of France is a 1751 oil painting by Jean-Marc Nattier, exemplifying the Rococo style. It depicts a young noblewoman from Louis XV’s court in a refined setting.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays Marie Zéphyrine, a member of the French royal court, as a symbol of aristocratic elegance. Accompanied by a small dog, she embodies youthful refinement within a courtly context.

Technique & Style

Nattier employs characteristic Rococo elements: soft pastel hues (notably white and blue), intricate lace details, and a serene atmosphere. The composition balances simplicity with ornate accents like the golden object with a red tip.

History & Provenance

Created in 1751, the portrait is now part of the Uffizi Gallery’s collection, reflecting its historical and artistic significance.

Context

As a court painter, Nattier often depicted aristocratic women in mythological or elegant settings, situating this work within his broader oeuvre of capturing 18th-century French nobility.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean-Marc Nattier

Artist

Jean-Marc Nattier

Jean-Marc Nattier (French pronunciation: ; 17 March 1685 – 7 November 1766) was a French painter.

Uffizi Gallery

Museum

Uffizi Gallery

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Uffizi Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.