1286 - Antoine Pesne (1683 Paris – 1757 Berlin), workshop or circle

Antoine Pesne (1683 Paris – 1757 Berlin), workshop or circle Portrait of Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel-Bevern, Queen of Prussia (1715–1797) A stately, courtly portrait depicting her in a magnificent, green, richly embroidered, lustrous silk gown and a red ermine cloak, which, like her precious diamond jewelry, attests to her high noble status. With her left hand, she holds a red-and-white floral garland over her shoulder, while a matching hairpin is tucked into her powdered hair. The subject of the portrait was the daughter of Duke Ferdinand Albrecht II of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel. She was betrothed in 1732 in Berlin to the Crown Prince of Prussia, the future King Frederick II; the wedding took place in 1733 at Salzdahlum Castle. After his accession to the throne in 1740, Frederick lived apart from his wife, resulting in two separate courts. Elisabeth Christine represented the royal house and the dynasty in Berlin, carrying out public and ceremonial duties. Given the princess’s youthful appearance, the painting was most likely created between 1732 and 1739, during the period between her engagement and Frederick II’s accession to the throne. Oil on canvas, relined; 107.5 cm x 84.5 cm. Frame. Provenance: From the dissolution of a private collection in Berlin. Studio or circle of Antoine Pesne (1683–1757). Oil on canvas, relined.