Jean-Claude Richard, abbé of Saint-Non facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jean-Claude Richard, Abbot of Saint-Non, Dressed 'à l'Espagnole' |
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| Artist | Jean-Honoré Fragonard |
| Year | Circa 1769 |
| Medium | Oil on canvas |
| Dimensions | 93.8 cm × 73.8 cm (36.9 in × 29.1 in) |
| Location | Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, Barcelona |
The Jean-Claude Richard, Abbot of Saint-Non, Dressed à l'Espagnole is a famous painting by Jean-Honoré Fragonard. You can see this artwork at the National Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona. It shows a man named Jean-Claude Richard, who was a friend of the artist.
What the Painting Shows
In this painting, a knight sits proudly next to a fountain. His horse is drinking from the fountain. The knight is wearing clothes described as à l'espagnole. This phrase means "in the Spanish style."
The "Spanish Style"
You might think "Spanish style" means it looks like fashion from Spain at that time. But in 18th-century France, it actually meant something different! It was a way to describe clothing that looked old-fashioned or fancy. These clothes were inspired by French styles from earlier times, like during the reigns of King Henry IV and Louis XIII. So, it was more about a "picturesque" or "costume" look than actual Spanish fashion.
About the Artist
Jean-Honoré Fragonard painted this artwork when he was a young artist. He made it during a trip to Italy with his friend and supporter, Jean-Claude Richard. Fragonard was one of the last artists to work in the rococo art style. Rococo art is known for being playful, elegant, and often uses light, flowing lines.
This painting shows Fragonard's special style. He used quick, lively brushstrokes, which people called "virtuosity of speed." This made his paintings feel full of movement and light.
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