Portrait of a Young Nobleman in Hunting Costume

The painting testifies to the growing self-confidence of the French nobility around 1730, Largillière’s preferred clients. The fine execution and colourfulness of the painting are remarkable, with the delicately shimmering fabrics contrasting with the stage backdrop-like landscape behind. The casual attitude of the subject and his pointing gestures conform to contemporary demands of art theory and are intended to convey the impression of a direct conversation with the sitter.