111 - French School, 1827, after Louis TOCQUÉ (Paris, 1696–1772)

French School, 1827, after Louis TOCQUÉ (Paris, 1696–1772) Portrait of Louis, Dauphin of France (1729–1765), aged 10. Oil on canvas. Framed. On the back of the canvas, handwritten annotations in ink: “from the artist, a tribute to Mr. Cout... 1827 (name illegible) / Louis of France.” On the stretcher, typewritten labels dating from the 20th century: “Sylvie Mercier collection, from a sale in Angers, 1954 (Coullaud) Tocqué.” H. 32.5 x W. 24 cm (canvas). History A delicate partial reproduction of one of Louis Tocqué’s masterpieces, depicting the young Dauphin, full-length, in his study. Commissioned by the Directorate of the King’s Buildings in 1738 and presented at the Salon in 1739, this monumental painting is now housed in Paris (oil on canvas, 196 x 146 cm, Louvre Museum, inv. 8174, ill. 1). The young Louis, Dauphin of France and son of Louis XV, received a particularly thorough education, in keeping with the demands of his rank and the principles of 18th-century French monarchy. Placed under the guidance of the Duke of Châtillon and instructed in particular by the Bishop of Limoges, Jean-Gilles du Coëtlosquet, he benefited from the instruction of renowned teachers in the fields of literature, history, classical languages, the sciences, and religion. His curriculum combined the classical humanities with moral and political training designed to prepare him for his future role as sovereign. Accounts from his contemporaries highlight the breadth of his knowledge as well as his keen interest in reading and reflection. Endowed with a sound intellect and a remarkable memory, the Dauphin also distinguished himself through his sincere piety and his commitment to Christian principles. Reserved and serious by nature, he showed little interest in courtly amusements and preferred scholarly pursuits and family life. His kindness, modesty, and sense of duty were frequently praised by those who knew him. Although he never ascended the throne, his personality and upbringing exerted a lasting influence on his children, among whom were the future kings Louis XVI, Louis XVIII, and Charles X. Lot presented by the Martenet-Rombout firm (pam@martenetrombout.com)