Artwork

Portrait of Frederick II, King of Prussia

Portrait of Frederick II, King of Prussia, by Antoine Pesne, oil, 1743
Portrait of Frederick II, King of Prussia, by Antoine Pesne, oil, 1743

Portrait of Frederick II, King of Prussia is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Antoine Pesne. It dates from 1743 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created by Antoine Pesne in 1743, is a portrait of a prominent historical figure. It is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted wearing a blue military coat with gold trim and a white wig, indicating a high rank, likely royal or military. He holds a sword and a small object, and wears a star medal, signifying his status.

Technique & Style

The artist employed chiaroscuro and soft lighting to emphasize the subject's face against a dimmer, blurry background, creating a sense of depth and focus.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Antoine Pesne

Artist

Antoine Pesne

Antoine Pesne (French pronunciation: ) (29 May 1683 – 5 August 1757) was a French-born court painter of Prussia.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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