Jean-Claude Richard, abbé of Saint-Non
Historical Context
Fragonard's portrait of the Abbé de Saint-Non from 1769 is one of his most celebrated figures de fantaisie—rapid portrait studies created with extraordinary speed and verve. The Abbé de Saint-Non was Fragonard's patron and traveling companion during his second Italian journey, an amateur etcher and writer who played an important role in documenting Italian art and culture. Legend holds that Fragonard painted this portrait in just one hour, and its spontaneous energy supports this claim.
Technical Analysis
The portrait's bravura technique is among Fragonard's most spectacular achievements, with the figure seemingly dashed off in rapid strokes of golden-brown paint. The theatrical costume and the dynamic pose create an image of creative energy that embodies the Rococo ideal of inspired spontaneity.
