Artwork

Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, then Duke of Chartres

Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, then Duke of Chartres, by Léon Cogniet, oil, 1834
Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, then Duke of Chartres, by Léon Cogniet, oil, 1834

Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, then Duke of Chartres is an oil painting by Léon Cogniet. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the Palace of Versailles.

About this work

Overview

Painted in 1834 by French artist Léon Cogniet, *Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, then Duke of Chartres* is an oil-on-canvas portrait depicting Louis-Philippe I in a military context, highlighting his stature. The work is part of the Palace of Versailles collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait captures Louis-Philippe I as the Duke of Chartres, emphasizing his military role through attire and accessories (uniform, sword, hat). Compositional elements, such as the stormy sky and distant landscape, may symbolize turmoil and distant responsibilities.

Technique & Style

Cogniet demonstrates meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the play of light on the subject's face and ornate military uniform. The inclusion of a partially visible figure (a woman's arm with a feathered hat) adds depth, characteristic of Cogniet's narrative approach to portraiture.

History & Provenance

Created during Cogniet's active period in the 19th century, the painting is now housed at the Palace of Versailles, reflecting its historical and artistic significance. Cogniet, also recognized as a prolific educator, influenced numerous artists through his teachings.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Léon Cogniet

Artist

Léon Cogniet

Léon Cogniet (29 August 1794 – 20 November 1880) was a French history and portrait painter. He is probably best remembered as a teacher, with more than one hundred students, some of them notable.

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