Portrait of Cardinal Jean-françois Joseph De Rochechouart 1762

Pompeo Batoni painted this portrait of Cardinal Jean-François Joseph de Rochechouart using oils, and it presents us with a study in contrasts. Visually, the eye is immediately drawn to the vibrant red of the Cardinal's cape, which dominates the composition. This bold color clashes subtly with the more subdued tones of his face and the surrounding background. Note how Batoni uses the texture of the paint to create a sheen on the red fabric, emphasizing its richness and the Cardinal’s status. The severe, almost geometric, folds of the cape contrast with the delicate, intricate lace of his sleeves, which peek out from beneath. This contrast isn't merely decorative; it reflects the period's fascination with displaying wealth and power through detailed, symbolic representation. Batoni uses these elements to engage with broader themes of hierarchy and representation. He presents the Cardinal as a figure of authority, whose visual image is meticulously constructed to convey power.