Louis Léopold Boilly (1761-1845) – Antoine Vincent Arnault (1766-1834) Part 2 Louvre

The portrait presents a gentleman viewed in three-quarter profile against a muted, indistinct background. The sitters gaze is directed towards the viewer, establishing a direct connection that suggests confidence and accessibility. His expression is subtle; it conveys neither overt joy nor melancholy, but rather a quiet composure indicative of someone accustomed to social standing.
The artist has rendered the man’s hair with short, dark curls, meticulously detailed to capture both texture and volume. The cut and style suggest a contemporary fashion of the late 18th or early 19th century. His attire is equally significant: a dark brown coat, seemingly worn over a lighter waistcoat, speaks to an understated elegance. A crisp white cravat is knotted at his throat, adding a touch of formality. The fabric’s rendering demonstrates attention to detail and the artists skill in depicting texture.
The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating the face and upper torso while leaving the background largely in shadow. This technique focuses the viewer’s attention on the sitter himself, emphasizing his presence and importance. A small emblem affixed to the lapel of his coat – a stylized floral motif rendered in red and gold – hints at possible affiliations or membership within a specific organization or social group.
The overall impression is one of restrained dignity and quiet prosperity. The absence of overt displays of wealth or power suggests a man who values discretion and refinement. Theres an air of intellectual curiosity about him, conveyed through the slightly furrowed brow and attentive gaze. The painting’s composition, with its focus on the individual against a neutral backdrop, reinforces the sitter’s individuality and social standing within his time.