André François Alloys de Theys d'Herculais (1692–1779)

Hi everyone! My name is Isabella, and I'm so excited to show you this amazing painting! It's a portrait of a very important man from a long, long time ago. Look how big it is! Does anyone know how big paintings like this are usually made? (Pause for answers). That's right, they're painted on huge canvases! nn This painting is of a man named André François. He lived hundreds of years ago in France. Look at his fancy clothes! See his red coat? It's made of velvet, a very soft and luxurious fabric. And look at all the gold embroidery! It's like sparkly thread sewn all over. What do you think that tells us about André François? (Pause for answers). Yes, it shows he was very rich and important! nn He's also wearing a grey and gold thing under his coat. That's called a cuirass. It's like a piece of armor, a bit like what knights wore. Do you see the helmet next to him? And the furry rug? What do you think that tells us about him? (Pause for answers). You're right, it shows he might have been a soldier! He looks very serious, doesn't he? Maybe he's thinking about a big battle. nn The artist who painted this picture was very clever with light and shadow. See how the light makes the velvet coat look shiny? And how the dark background makes André François stand out? The artist used lots of brown and orange colors in the background. What do those colors make you think of? (Pause for answers). They make me think of a warm, sunny day, or maybe even a battlefield! nn This painting isn't just a picture of a man; it's a story about a time long ago. It shows us how rich and powerful people lived. It shows us their clothes, their weapons, and even a little bit about their lives. Isn't that amazing? What's your favorite part of the painting? (Pause for answers). I'm so glad you all came to see this wonderful artwork with me today! nn