Jean-Étienne Lyotard is a Swiss-born artist who lived in the 18th century. This is one of the most original and sought-after masters of his time. In the era of Rococo embellishing reality, Jean-Étienne Lyotard creates realistic portraits, for which he receives the nickname “painter of truth.” His detailed work with excellent color reproduction makes it possible to travel back several centuries and see the representatives of the “Gallant Age” as they really were.

Biography of Jean-Étienne Lyotard

Jean-Étienne Lyotard was born in Geneva in 1702. From childhood, he showed a penchant for drawing and got the opportunity to develop this talent, as he lived in a jeweler’s family. Professional training began in the studio of the miniaturist Daniel Gardel, but the aspiring artist quickly surpassed the teacher and left for Paris at the age of 21.

After a three-year study in the workshop of Jean-Baptiste Masse (Jean-Baptiste Masse), he worked independently. At first he painted in historical themes. He even received an Academy of Arts Prize for his painting David in the Temple. But the true success brought the artist portraiture.

In 1736, Jean-Étienne Lyotard traveled to Rome, and some time later to Constantinople. Eastern traditions made a strong impression on the artist and were reflected in his work.

After a long journey, in 1743 Lyotard arrived in Vienna in a Turkish costume and aroused the interest of the Austrian high society. Success at court brought orders for portraits of the imperial family. This period was the most fruitful in the life of the artist, in particular, he painted his most famous work – “The Beautiful Chocolate Girl”.

In the future, Lyotard traveled a lot around Europe, enjoyed international fame, painted portraits of noble persons and famous beauties. His work becomes more and more precise and rigorous. In old age, the master returned to his native Geneva, where he became interested in the genre of still life.