The artwork titled “Portrait of Charles-Pierre Pecoul” was created by the renowned artist Jacques-Louis David in the year 1784. This oil on canvas painting is a fine example of the Neoclassical art movement. The portrait measures 91.5 x 72.5 cm and is a part of the genre of portraiture. It is currently housed in the prestigious Louvre Museum in Paris, France.
In the artwork, the subject, Charles-Pierre Pecoul, is depicted seated against a neutral backdrop that draws focus to his figure. He is portrayed with a composed and dignified demeanor, characteristics often celebrated in the Neoclassical movement, which emphasized classical ideals of beauty and harmony. Pecoul is dressed in the attire of the period, featuring a brown coat with golden buttons, a white cravat, and what appears to be a red waistcoat. The careful attention to the rendering of fabrics and textures is a testament to David’s skill and the exacting standards of portraiture during this era. The subject’s face is illuminated, showcasing his features that are rendered in a realistic manner, imbued with a sense of individual personality and refinement. The overall composition, with its balanced use of light and shadow, as well as the relaxed yet authoritative posture of Pecoul, is reflective of the enlightened values espoused during the artist’s time.