Hyacinthe Rigaud - Copy Charles XII - Nationalmuseum - 17886

Hyacinthe Rigaud was a French painter born on 18 July 1659 in Perpignan, France. He is best known for his portraits of the French aristocracy and royalty during the reign of King Louis XIV. Rigaud began his artistic training with his father, who was a tailor. He later studied in Paris with the painter Jean Francais de Troy. In 1681, he won the Prix de Rome, which enabled him to study in Italy for three years. On his return to France, Rigaud quickly gained a reputation as a skilled portraitist. He was commissioned to paint portraits of many of the most powerful and influential people in France, including King Louis XIV and his family. Rigaud's portraits were renowned for their grandeur and opulence. He often portrayed his subjects in lavish clothing and surrounded by luxurious furnishings. His use of light and shadow added depth and drama to his paintings. As well as portraits, Rigaud also painted religious and mythological scenes. He died in Paris on 29 December 1743. His works are now in museums around the world, including the Louvre in Paris and the National Gallery in London.

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