Charles François De La Baume Le Blanc,Duke Of La Valliere (1665-1739)

This captivating portrait by Jean-Baptiste Oudry, a noted 18th-century French painter, presents Charles François de La Baume Le Blanc, the Duke of La Valliere. Known for his excellence in capturing the finer details of his subjects, Oudry's talent is evident in this masterful depiction.The Duke is portrayed with an air of contemplative elegance, dressed in a luxurious golden jacket embellished with intricate details and lace at the cuff, suggestive of his high social status and refined taste. The soft lustre of the silk, coupled with the light-catching sheen, highlights the status and wealth typically associated with French nobility of the period.His gaze, direct and seemingly introspective, along with a slight, knowing smile, gives a glimpse into his character, suggesting a man of wisdom and perhaps a quiet confidence. The traditional "allonge" wig, styled in voluminous curls, frames his face and is emblematic of the period's fashion.Adding depth to the composition, Oudry includes a rich blue drapery in the background, providing a contrast that accentuates the Duke's attire and the creamy tones of his complexion.This portrait not only serves as a historical artifact documenting the fashion and cultural nuances of the French aristocracy in the 1700s but also as a testament to Oudry’s skill in portraiture.