Artwork

Portrait of Princess Marie Thérèse of France (1667–1672)

Portrait of Princess Marie Thérèse of France (1667–1672), by Jean Nocret, oil, 1670
Portrait of Princess Marie Thérèse of France (1667–1672), by Jean Nocret, oil, 1670

Portrait of Princess Marie Thérèse of France (1667–1672) is an oil painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Jean Nocret. It dates from 1670 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado. This oil painting, created around 1670, is a portrait of a young royal figure.

About this work

This painting is a portrait of a young girl, likely a princess, dressed in an ornate red and white dress with intricate lace details.

This painting is a portrait of a young girl, likely a princess, dressed in an ornate red and white dress with intricate lace details. She holds a lemon in her right hand and wears a pearl necklace. The background is dark, which makes the subject stand out.

The girl's hair is curly and adorned with a headband, and she wears a red cape draped over her left shoulder. The painting's style suggests it was created in the 17th century, with attention to detail and realism.

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, drawing the viewer's eye to the subject. To learn more about this technique, explore the art of chiaroscuro.

Overview

This oil painting, created around 1670, is a portrait of a young royal figure. It is attributed to Jean Nocret and is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is Princess Marie Thérèse of France, daughter of Louis XIV, depicted in an ornate red and white dress with a pearl necklace and holding a lemon. Her refined presentation reflects the formality of 17th-century aristocratic portraiture.

Technique & Style

The painting showcases the artist's skillful use of chiaroscuro, creating depth and dimensionality against a dark background. The attention to detail in the subject's attire, including intricate lace, is characteristic of French classical Baroque portraiture.

History & Provenance

The portrait is part of a series of royal portraits Nocret created for the French court, capturing the grandeur of the period. It was painted during the reign of Louis XIV, likely between 1667 and 1672.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean Nocret

Artist

Jean Nocret

Jean Nocret (December 1615/17, Nancy – November 1672, Paris) was a French painter, known for his portraits of the French royal family. Many portraits of uncertain origin have been attributed to him.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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