Artwork

The Fishmonger

The Fishmonger, by Louis de Moni, oil, 1744
The Fishmonger, by Louis de Moni, oil, 1744

The Fishmonger is an oil painting by Louis de Moni. It dates from 1744 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Fishmonger is an oil painting attributed to Louis de Moni, dating to circa 1744. It is part of the collection at the Fitzwilliam Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a seated figure, identified as a fishmonger by his attire and the presence of fish. He wears a distinctive outfit consisting of a brown coat with blue sleeves and a hat, and is engaged in a gesture with his right hand while holding a fish in his left. Several fish are arranged before him, with one notable example lying on its side.

Technique & Style

The composition employs chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, to create depth and focal emphasis on the fishmonger and the fish, drawing the viewer's attention to these central elements.

History & Provenance

Created around 1744, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Fitzwilliam Museum is not detailed here. It is currently held in the museum's collection.

Context

While specific contextual details about the painting's creation are scarce, its depiction of a everyday profession suggests it may align with 18th-century interests in scenes of common life.

Legacy

The painting's impact or influence on subsequent art is not explicitly documented in the provided information, focusing instead on its descriptive and technical aspects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Louis de Moni

Artist

Louis de Moni

Louis de Moni (1698–1771) was an artist, born in Breda.

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