After Nicolas de Largilliere (1656-1746) French, Oil on Canvas “The Provost of the Merchants and the Aldermen of the City of Paris." A gathering or tribunal featuring figures draped in vibrant red robes, gesticulating and holding papers or scrolls, resembling magistrates or noble council but ironically seated in a tranquil forest setting as the sun sets over a hill in the distance, rather than in the traditional chambers. Held in an opulent gilt frame. 

Condition: Signs of age to both the canvas and the frame, as well as indications of repairs on the back. 

Overall Size: 20 x 23 1/4 in. 

Sight Size: 14 1/2 x 17 3/4 in. 

Nicolas de Largillière (1656-1746) was a prominent French Baroque painter and draughtsman celebrated primarily for his opulent portraits of European aristocracy and the professional elite. Training initially in Antwerp and later working under Sir Peter Lely in London, he developed a vibrant, colorful brushwork style that captured rich textures like silk, velvet, and lace. He achieved high standing within the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in Paris, eventually serving as its director from 1733 to 1735. Alongside his monumental group and individual portraits, his extensive output left an enduring visual record of French society during the reigns of Louis XIV and Louis XV. 

Signs of age to both the canvas and the frame, as well as indications of repairs on the back. 

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.