Who painted Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny?

Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny was painted by Johann Georg Wille in 1762.

Where can I see Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny?

Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny?

Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny

Johann Georg Wille , 1762

Abel Francois Poisson, Marquis de Marigny is an ink print by the Baroque artist Johann Georg Wille. It dates from 1762 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1762 copper engraving, executed by Johann Georg Wille, portrays Abel François Poisson, Marquis de Marigny, a prominent French arts administrator and sibling of Madame de Pompadour. The image is rendered in black and white, showing the sitter in elaborate dress with a powdered wig, a star‑adorned coat, a fur‑trimmed cape, and a staff, while a dog rests behind him within a curtained setting.

Subject & Meaning

Marigny, known for his role in overseeing royal artistic institutions, is depicted with symbols of authority and refinement: the staff suggests official duty, the paper implies administrative work, and the canine companion adds a personal, domestic touch. The composition underscores his status within the cultural hierarchy of mid‑eighteenth‑century France.

Technique & Style

Wille employed copper engraving, incising fine lines into a metal plate to achieve precise rendering of textures such as fabric folds, wig curls, and fur trim. The high contrast of the black‑and‑white medium accentuates detail, while the careful hatching conveys depth and material quality without the use of colour.

History & Provenance

Johann Georg Wille, a German‑born artist who settled in Paris, combined his engraving practice with art dealing. The portrait was produced during his Parisian period, reflecting his reputation for portraiture of elite clientele. The print bears the sitter’s name at the bottom, confirming its intended function as a commemorative image for contemporary audiences.

Artist & collection

Artist

Johann Georg Wille

Johann Georg Wille, or Jean Georges Wille (5 November 1715, near Biebertal – 5 April 1808, Paris) was a German-born copper engraver, who spent most of his life in France. He also worked as an art dealer.