Pierre Michel Alix, After Jean-François Garneray, Michel Lepelletier, 18th century, Harvard Art Museums/Fogg Museum
Arthur M. Sackler Museum, 485 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Elizabeth Rudy, Theodore Rousseau Assistant Curator of European Paintings, Division of European and American Art, Harvard Art Museums
This talk will focus on portraits of two well-known public figures of the 18th century, Mme. de Pompadour and Emmanuel Sièyes. One the official mistress to Louis XV, the other a prominent statesman in the shifting governments of the French Revolution, they both attracted public attention and provoked discourse. The comparison of how these celebrities were represented at particular moments in their respective careers will provide the framework for a larger discussion of 18th-century French portraiture in the exhibition.
Free with price of admission. Admission is free for MA residents on Saturdays before noon.
Gallery talks are informal and include discussion. Limited to 25 participants; please arrive early.