Artwork

Portrait of the Frankfurt banker Johann Georg Leerse

Portrait of the Frankfurt banker Johann Georg Leerse, by Jean-Marc Nattier, oil, 1749
Portrait of the Frankfurt banker Johann Georg Leerse, by Jean-Marc Nattier, oil, 1749

Portrait of the Frankfurt banker Johann Georg Leerse is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean-Marc Nattier. It dates from 1749 and is held in the collection of the Städel Museum.

About this work

Overview

Painted in 1749 by French Rococo artist Jean-Marc Nattier, *Portrait of the Frankfurt banker Johann Georg Leerse* is an oil-on-canvas work belonging to the portraiture genre, currently housed at the Städel Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Johann Georg Leerse, a prominent Frankfurt banker, from the waist up, with a neutral expression. His ornate brown jacket with gold accents and white shirt signify his wealth and status.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of Nattier's skill and the Rococo period, the painting showcases meticulous detail, particularly evident in the rendering of Leerse's long, curly white hair and intricate attire.

History & Provenance

Created in 1749 for a wealthy banker, the portrait's provenance prior to its acquisition by the Städel Museum is not detailed here, highlighting the artist's versatility beyond royal court subjects.

Context

While Nattier is renowned for portraying Louis XV's court ladies in mythological contexts, this work demonstrates his ability to capture the essence of non-royal, high-society figures of his time.

Legacy

As part of the Städel Museum's collection, the portrait contributes to the institution's holdings of 18th-century French art, offering insight into Rococo portraiture and Nattier's contributions beyond his more famous mythological works.

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.

Städel Museum

Museum

Städel Museum

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