Artwork
Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette
Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Various Artists. It dates from 1781 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 18th-century print depicts dual oval portraits of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette on silk satin, combining etching, wash manner, stipple engraving, gold leaf, and hand coloring with tarnished silver paint.
Subject & Meaning
The subjects are the French monarchs Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, portrayed in formal attire. The king wears a somber expression and dark coat, contrasting with the queen's serene smile, white wig, and pearls, reflecting their public personas.
Technique & Style
The print employs a luxurious combination of techniques: etching for detail, stipple engraving for texture, and wash manner for tonality, augmented by gold leaf and hand coloring. The use of silk satin and tarnished silver paint (originally shiny) added to the opulent, high-end appearance intended to convey royal prestige.
Context
Created during the late 18th century, this print reflects the period's penchant for lavish, detailed depictions of royalty. The choice of materials and techniques underscores the subjects' wealth and status, catering to the contemporary taste for luxury items.
Legacy
While the print's specific impact is not broadly documented, it represents a typical example of late 18th-century European royal portraiture, showcasing artistic techniques valued at the time. The deterioration of the silver paint serves as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of certain artistic materials.
Artist & collection
Artist
