Louis XV
Medium
engraving
Dimensions
plate: 32.2 x 19.5 cm (12 11/16 x 7 11/16 in.) sheet: 46.8 x 31 cm (18 7/16 x 12 3/16 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of John O'Brien
Accession Number
1983.99.2
Art Historical Context
This elegant engraving, titled *Louis XV*, captures the young king of France in a regal pose, created by master engraver Jean Daull after an original portrait by the renowned Baroque artist Hyacinthe Rigaud Dated 1737, it reflects the opulent world of Louis XV's early reign (1715–4), a time when France's absolute monarchy sought to project grandeur amid shifting cultural tides toward Rococo elegance. Rigaud, famous for his lavish portraits of Louis XIV, brought similar splendor to this depiction, emphasizing royal authority through rich attire and poised demeanor. Daullé's engraving technique...