Antoine Coypel

Antoine Coypel was a French painter, pastellist, engraver, decorative designer and draughtsman who lived from 11 April 1661 to 7 January 1722. He became court painter first to Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, and later to King Louis XV, and he became director of the Académie Royale. He was given the title of Garde des tableaux et dessins du roi, Keeper of the paintings and drawings of the king, a function that combined the role of director and curator of the royal art collection. The French king raised him to the nobility, and he is known for his history paintings, biblical, mythological and allegorical works, and portraits.