Portrait Of The Count Of Toulouse As A Child. French School, 17th Century

Louis-Alexandre de Bourbon, Count of Toulouse — Child French School, 17th century Circle of François de Troy**This portrait can be paired with the other I am presenting Oil on canvas/panel Presented in its original carved and gilded wooden frame, a model known as "with floral corners" Overall dimensions: 55.5 x 48 cm. Canvas only: 40 x 32 cm This delicate portrait of a child depicts Louis-Alexandre de Bourbon, Count of Toulouse, one of the legitimized sons of Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan. Executed in the circle of François de Troy, it belongs to the grand tradition of late 17th-century French portraiture, where refined elegance is combined with a subtle portrayal of rank and character. This type of small format, highly prized at the time, was often a reduction of official portraits. They were sold in Versailles or the surrounding area to provincial nobles who came to attend court ceremonies. Eager to keep a tangible memento of their stay with the Sun King, they took home these miniature effigies of members of the royal family or prominent figures of the kingdom. These paintings, both intimate and precious, were then displayed in aristocratic homes as testaments to a moment lived at the heart of power. Here, the young prince appears in all the grace of aristocratic childhood: curly hair, a richly embroidered costume, a gentle and slightly dreamy gaze. The charm works immediately. This type of portrait, both tender and solemn, captures a form of poetry inherent to court art—a subtle balance between official representation and delicate emotion.*Biography of Louis-Alexandre de Bourbon (1678–1737) The legitimized son of Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan, Louis-Alexandre de Bourbon received the title of Count of Toulouse at a very young age. Destined for a brilliant military career, he became Admiral of France at only five years old and distinguished himself in several naval campaigns. A cultured, discreet, and well-liked man, he remained one of the Sun King's favorite children. During the Regency, he retained considerable influence and played a measured but respected political role. His life was marked by unwavering loyalty to the crown and a reputation for gentleness and moderation. Good overall condition, recently cleaned and revarnished. Sold with a certificate of authenticity