JEAN-BAPTISTE MASSE

(1687-1767)

Portrait of Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, known as "le Gros"

18th century

Watercolor and gouache on vellum,

Gilded circle metal mount in black wood frame, 9 x 8  cm.

Labels on the back

A precious miniature by Jean Baptiste Masse (1687-1767) on vellum.

This mighty soldier, who proudly wears shining armor as he rests his hand on the hilt of his sword, is identified on the back of the miniature.

This is Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, known as "le Gros", Duke of Chartres then Duke of Orléans, Valois, Nemours and Montpensier and first Prince of the Blood.

Appreciate the details, the reflections in the armor, the naturalistic detail of the felled trunk and with the raised bark, the theatricality of the stormy and dramatic sky which evokes the imminent battle in contrast with the tranquility with which Louis-Philippe d'Orléans waits for the battle.

Given the unusual format, this portrait was probably intended to adorn a precious gold snuffbox.

Bears a label on the reverse "Collection Berqueman / de Souvenir de Marine / (1956) / Bruxelles"

If it is Alexandre Berqueman, a great friend of Hergé, he is the creator of the Adventures of Tintin and Milou.

 For more information on their relationship, please consult:

https://tintinomania.com/tintin-aautour-herge-alexandre-berqueman

His works are kept in the most important museums and private collections.
Price: 5200€

PROVENANCE:

- Collection d'Orléans ?

- Drouot 10/12/1941

- Berqueman Collection 1956

- Private collection La Chartre sur Loire

- Private collection Paris

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Mariette, Abecedario. Cochin, Bryan, Thiewme and Becker, Lemberger, Foster Clouzot, Darmon, Mauri, Busse, Hofstetter, Bénézit, Schidlof, Bouchard, Blattel, Lespinasse, Otten and Pappe.

MUSEUMS:

MHL, MBA Caen, Louvre, Paris; coll. Tansey, Celle; Condé Museum, Chantilly; clock and enamel museum, Geneva.