Rabaut Saint-Etienne

David's portrait of Rabaut Saint-Étienne of 1791 depicts the Protestant pastor and National Assembly deputy who was one of the Revolution's most important advocates for religious tolerance and the separation of church and state. Rabaut Saint-Étienne's advocacy for civil rights for Protestants and non-Catholics was foundational for the Revolution's secularizing legislation, and David's portrait of him reflects his engagement with the revolutionary project's commitment to ending religious discrimination.

The pastor-deputy is presented with the sober directness that characterizes David's revolutionary portraits. Dark coat, plain background, and steady gaze create an image of republican virtue, with the face modeled in cool, even tones that avoid both flattery and caricature.