Jean Restout

Jean Restout (1692–1768) was a prominent French painter associated with the academic traditions of the late Baroque period. Born into a family of artists in Rouen, Restout was strongly influenced by his painter-uncle, Jean Jouvenet, whose powerful religious compositions had a profound effect on the young artist. Restout achieved recognition early in his career, becoming a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in 1717. His reputation was built largely on his facility with religious themes, an area in which he excelled throughout his life. Restout's mastery of grand compositions, precise drawing, and luminous color made him one of the most sought-after painters of ecclesiastical scenes in 18th-century France. Source: adapted from the artwork essays in this collection.