Portrait of Voltaire
Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, the undisputed master of 18th-century French pastel, captures the Enlightenment's sharpest wit in this intimate study. Notice that enormous, balding forehead? In the 1700s, a high brow was the ultimate sign of intelligence, fitting for the philosopher Voltaire. The artist uses soft chalk to create a mischievous, almost twinkling expression, as if Voltaire is just about to deliver a biting satire about the French aristocracy. La Tour was famous for his ability to capture the 'soul' of his sitters, and here he nails Voltaire's playful cynicism perfectly.
- Technique
- Pastel
- Material
- Paper
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