Venetian School, 18th Century, Joseph Louis De Bourbon Vendôme, Known As "the Grand Vendôme"

Venetian School, 18th Century, Portrait of Joseph Louis de Bourbon Vendôme, known as “the Grand Vendôme”, oil on canvas, 56,5x41x1,5 cm

Depicted on horseback in an imposing ceremonial pose, Joseph Louis de Bourbon Vendôme (1654–1712), known as the Grand Vendôme, a descendant of the Bourbons of France, was one of King Louis XIV's most famous generals. Distinguished in the wars of Flanders, Italy, and Spain, he became renowned for his courage, tactical acumen, and energetic temperament, so much so that he is remembered as one of the last great leaders of the century. The prince is depicted in shining armor, with a blue sash across his torso and an elegant plumed hat. Around his neck, he wears the collar of the Golden Fleece, the distinctive sign of the highest chivalric honor of the time, bestowed upon him in 1708 by Philip V of Spain for his military merits during the War of the Spanish Succession. The gesture of his right hand, which appears to be issuing a command or saluting the troops, emphasizes his role as a strategist and leader. The horse, powerful and well-modeled, is captured in motion, with one foreleg raised and its head turned toward the viewer: a device that lends dynamism and authority to the composition. The warm light and earthy tones of the palette, along with the nuanced background, hark back to late Baroque Venetian painting, sensitive to atmospheric rendering and the plasticity of the figures.

Condition: The painting is in good condition.
We remain at your disposal for further information.