The Penthievre Family or The Cup of Chocolate Jean Baptiste Charpentier (1728-1806)

Here we observe a domestic scene rendered in a style characteristic of late eighteenth-century portraiture. A family group is gathered within what appears to be a lavishly decorated salon. The composition is structured around a central focus: the shared consumption of chocolate, indicated by the cups held by several figures.
The arrangement suggests a hierarchy and established social order. An older gentleman, seated on an ornate chair positioned at the left edge of the canvas, directs attention with his posture and gaze. He appears to be engaged in conversation or perhaps offering a toast. Beside him sits a younger man, mirroring his pose but exhibiting a more youthful demeanor. The central female figure, presumably the matriarch, is seated on a chaise lounge, her expression serene as she holds a cup. A small dog rests at her feet, adding an element of domesticity and affection to the scene.
Behind this primary group, two additional women are partially visible, their presence contributing to the sense of familial unity and reinforcing the impression of wealth and status. Their positioning in shadow suggests they occupy a secondary role within the depicted social dynamic. The rich color palette – dominated by reds, golds, and creams – further emphasizes the opulence of the setting.
The details contribute to a nuanced understanding of the scenes subtexts. The presence of chocolate itself is significant; it was an expensive commodity at the time, signifying luxury and refinement. The carefully rendered fabrics of their clothing – silks, velvets, and brocades – underscore their social standing. The interior design, with its elaborate curtains, gilded furniture, and decorative details, speaks to a cultivated taste and considerable financial resources.
The artist has skillfully employed light and shadow to create depth and focus attention on the central figures. The overall effect is one of controlled elegance and understated display, conveying not only the family’s material prosperity but also their adherence to societal norms and expectations regarding propriety and decorum. The painting offers a glimpse into the private world of an aristocratic household during a period of significant social and political change.