Jean Jacques Rousseau
1830
Here we see the famous philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau looking rather dapper in his powdered wig and cravat, a far cry from the radical rebel who shook up 18th-century thought! This print is based on a pastel masterpiece by Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, the Rococo era's favorite portraitist who captured the likenesses of kings and intellectuals alike. Rousseau wrote passionately about returning to nature, so seeing him so formally dressed is a delightful irony. The text at the bottom proudly declares it's 'after the original portrait by Latour,' ensuring his intense gaze continued to inspire readers long after his death.
Views: 2