Jean Marc Nattier

Jean Marc Nattier (1685-1766) was a French painter of the Rococo period, known for his portraits and mythological scenes. Born in Paris, he studied under his father, a portrait painter, and then with Jean Jouvenet. Nattier became a member of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in 1718 and was appointed as the official painter of the royal court in 1734. He became renowned for his delicate pastel portraits of French nobility, including Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV, who he painted numerous times. In addition to portraits, Nattier also painted mythological scenes, such as his famous "Jupiter and Danae," which shows the god Jupiter in the form of golden rain embracing the mortal woman Danae. Nattier's works are characterized by their refined elegance and delicate use of color.