Artwork

Provost and Municipal Magistrates of Paris Discussing the Celebration of Louis XIV's Dinner at the Hotel de Ville after his Recovery in 1687

Provost and Municipal Magistrates of Paris Discussing the Celebration of Louis XIV's Dinner at the Hotel de Ville after his Recovery in 1687 is an oil painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Nicolas de Largillière. It dates from 1695 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1695 oil painting by Nicolas de Largillière captures a formal assembly of Parisian civic leaders. The work is characteristic of the French Classical Baroque style and is now held in the State Hermitage Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts the Provost and Municipal Magistrates of Paris deliberating on a celebration to mark King Louis XIV's recovery in 1687. The gathering is shown in a detailed, realistic manner, with the figures dressed in formal attire.

Technique & Style

Largillière's use of rich colors and detailed textures conveys a sense of depth and realism. The painting features a large table with a statue and a crowd in the background, adding to the overall sense of occasion.

History & Provenance

Completed in 1695, the painting is a product of Largillière's mature period, after he had established himself as a prominent artist and would later become director of the Académie de Peinture et de Sculpture.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nicolas de Largillière

Nicolas de Largillière (French: ; baptised 10 October 1656 – 20 March 1746) was a French painter and draughtsman. From 1733 until 1735, he was director of the Académie de Peinture et de Sculpture.