Portrait of Duchess Maria Anna Christina Victoria of Bavaria, 'la Grande Dauphine'
Historical Context
Jean-François de Troy was the son of a distinguished portraitist and himself became a major figure in French painting of the early 18th century. This 1690 portrait of Maria Anna Christina Victoria of Bavaria — the Grande Dauphine, wife of Louis XIV's son — belongs to his early career when court portraiture was still his primary activity before he shifted toward history painting and elegant genre scenes. The Grande Dauphine was a significant figure at Versailles until her early death in 1690.
Technical Analysis
The Dauphine is shown in a formal three-quarter length pose with the opulent dress and accessories befitting her royal rank. De Troy's handling of silk and lace is assured, and the face is modeled with the sensitive directness that distinguishes his best portrait work.
