Portrait Of Marie-angelique De Coulanges. Attributed To Pierre Mignard (1612-1695)

Oil on canvas in oval shape (not lined and original frame) In its period frame in carved wood with beautiful gilding, decorated with oak leaves and acorns. Dimensions with the frame: 90 x 77 cm. The canvas alone: 75 x 60 cm This 17th century painting, painted around 1670, represents Marie-Angélique de Coulanges, she wears a Fontange style hair with two eye-catchers, very red lips, respecting codes and fashion of his time. She wears a dress entirely embroidered with gold threads embellished with fine lace, jewels made of pearls and cabochons of precious stones and in a precious gesture she puts her elbow and rests her head on her hand. Cousin of Louvois, Marie-Angélique du Gué de Bagnols, lady of Coulanges, born around 1641, died August 3, 1723 in Paris, is a witty woman and a French letter-writer, close friend and cousin of Madame de Sévigné. On December 16, 1659, she married Philippe-Emmanuel de Coulanges, adviser to the Parliament of Paris, "chansonnier", amiable parasite, first cousin and friend of Madame de Sévigné. She lives with her husband rue du Parc-Royal, in Paris in the Marais where she frequents the beautiful spirits of this district. Madame de Coulanges was cheerful, witty and light, she inspired Madame de Sévigné with the nicknames of tourbillon, fly and leaf, "the leaf is the most frivolous and the lightest commodity that you have ever seen". Despite this harsh judgment, the two cousins maintained a sincere friendship. Madame de Coulanges went as often as possible to the court in Versailles where she did wonders with her wit… Pierre Mignard, French classical painter of the XVIIth century, is best known for his portraits of the royal family or his contemporaries. His reputation begins during a stay in Rome in the early 1650s. In 1657, Louis XIV invited him to Paris to work at the Court, and a stopover in Avignon saw his first meeting with Molière. A strong friendship was established there and the painter became one of the rare relatives of the actor outside his company. In 1664 Mignard completed the frescoes in the church of Val de Grace in Paris, and Molière composed a eulogy, published in 1669. Despite the royal approval he received, Mignard repeatedly refused to enter the Academy royal painting and sculpture. He nevertheless became its director in 1690. Admired in the 17th century, considered a model in the 18th century, he will be forgotten or denigrated in the history of art from the 19th century. Born a little over 400 years ago, it is interesting to rediscover this talented artist. Related work: French School of the 17th century. Portrait of Marie-Angélique de Coulanges. Oil on oval canvas: 71 x 59 cm. "The name of the character is inscribed on the canvas" Comte Amaury de Ternay collection, Rochers-Sévigné castle Catalog of the exhibition, Madame de Sévigné, Carnavalet museum (October 14, 1999 - January 12, 1997) page 50. Very good condition of conservation! Sold with invoice & certificate