The Book, Cat, & Cat Book Lovers Almanac

of historical trivia regarding books, cats, and other animals. Actually this blog has evolved so that it is described better as a blog about cats in history and culture. And we take as a theme the advice of Aldous Huxley: If you want to be a writer, get some cats. Don't forget to see the archived articles linked at the bottom of the page.

July 18, 2014

July 18, 1760

The following is what substituted for snapshots in the 18th century.




The subject is Frederick, Prince of Wales, and his sisters. The artist is Philip Mercier (1689 to July 18, 1760). Mercier was the official painter for the Prince, and also had the title of librarian in the Prince's household. The painting dates to 1733. Though Mercier was French, he had been born in Berlin, and no doubt those credentials helped him since the House of Hanover was only recently established in England.


And we have "A Girl Holding a Cat" dated to about 1750




Watteau is said to have been a big influence on Mercier. So was Chardin, and you can see that in the light on the face in this lovely portrait.
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