Portrait of a magistrate, first half of the 18th century.

Oil on canvas depicting a magistrate or high-ranking official in his formal attire, consisting of a black robe covered by a red cloak, according to the traditional iconography of members of the sovereign courts during the Regency and the early decades of Louis XV's reign.

The sitter is shown half-length, wearing a large, powdered wig with long curls. His direct gaze, the delicate rendering of the flesh tones, and the understated background emphasize the dignity and rank of the figure.

An old inscription visible in the upper part of the canvas identifies the sitter as "Le Sieur de Vatimenil." This name may be linked to the Lefebvre de Vatimesnil family, owners of the Vatimesnil estate in Normandy from the early 18th century. Based on his apparent age and magistrate's attire, the portrait could evoke Pierre Georges Lefebvre de Vatimesnil (1662-1742), although this identification cannot be definitively confirmed.

Portraits of magistrates retaining their original identifying inscriptions are relatively rare today. This inscription adds to the historical interest of the work and suggests a possible connection to a figure belonging to the Norman legal nobility of the 18th century.

The work displays a high level of execution, particularly evident in the treatment of the face, the gaze, and the volume of the wig. The deliberately restrained palette, dominated by the deep browns of the background and the rich red of the costume, lends the whole a remarkable presence.

The canvas was relined at some point to ensure its preservation. It shows some overpainting and old restorations, as well as wear consistent with its age, while maintaining good overall legibility and a very pleasing presentation.

Presented unframed.

Condition: Canvas relined at some point, some overpainting and old restorations, wear consistent with age. Good overall condition.

Dimensions: 81.5 x 65.5 cm.

Ref: 16ZVIK06CN