Jean-Baptiste Lully (1632-1687) Pierre Mignard (1612-1695)

The portrait presents a man in a three-quarter view, set against a dark, undefined background within an oval frame. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a connection. The subjects most striking feature is undoubtedly his elaborate hairstyle; a cascade of tightly curled hair dominates the upper portion of the composition, suggesting status and adherence to fashionable trends of the period.
The artist has rendered the man’s skin tone with careful attention to detail, capturing subtle variations in color that suggest both age and character. A slight redness on the nose and cheeks hints at a robust constitution or perhaps even a recent indulgence. The eyes are small but intense, conveying an impression of intelligence and authority.
He wears a dark coat over what appears to be a richly colored waistcoat, the red fabric providing a vibrant contrast against the darker tones of his attire. A delicate lace collar frames his neck, further emphasizing his refined social standing. In his right hand, he holds a small, cylindrical object – possibly a snuff box or a drinking vessel – which is rendered with meticulous detail and reflects light in a way that draws attention to it.
The overall impression conveyed by the painting is one of dignified composure and self-assurance. The subject’s posture and expression suggest a man accustomed to command and respect. The inclusion of the object he holds could be interpreted as a subtle symbol of his profession or personal habits, adding another layer of meaning to the portrait. The dark background serves to isolate the figure, focusing attention entirely on his presence and personality.