Portrait of Marc de Beauvau, Prince of Craon
Studio of Hyacinthe Rigaud (1659–1743), circa 1710

Oil on canvas, dimensions: h. 80 cm, w. 63 cm
Finely carved gilded wooden frame from the Louis XIV period
Framed: h. 105 cm, w. 87 cm

This portrait depicts Marc de Beauvau-Craon (1676–1754), Marquis de Beauvau, Prince of Craon and of the Holy Roman Empire, Marquis of Haroué and Craon, Grand Constable of Lorraine, Grandee of Spain, and Viceroy of Tuscany. Born in Nancy on April 2, 1676, and died at the Château d’Haroué on March 10, 1754, he was one of the greatest lords of Lorraine of his time and held a privileged position at the court of Duke Leopold of Lorraine, of whom he was one of the principal favorites and advisors.
This painting is a workshop version derived from the three-quarter-length portrait painted by Hyacinthe Rigaud, now housed at the Musée Lorrain in Nancy. It faithfully reproduces the composition conceived by the master while reflecting the circulation of his model within his workshop.
Marc de Beauvau-Craon is depicted in full military regalia, asserting his rank and duties. He wears ceremonial armor, the shoulder guards and arm guards of which are rendered with great care. The painter highlights the pearlescent sheen of the polished steel, playing on the contrasts between the shiny surfaces and the shadowed areas to convey the full richness of the metal.
A long wig with abundant curls—emblematic of aristocratic fashion during the reign of Louis XIV—frames his face and cascades widely over his shoulders and down his back. Its volume and the meticulous rendering of the curls contribute to the impression of majesty and underscore the figure’s eminent status.
The armor is partially covered by a red velvet cloak, whose warm color contrasts with the metallic sheen of the armor. The blue velvet trimmings, accented with gold braid, further enhance this ceremonial attire and contribute to the sumptuous nature of the depiction.
His warlike posture reinforces the image of a military leader, while his gaze, directed toward the viewer, conveys calm, authority, and determination. This pose, characteristic of Hyacinthe Rigaud’s military portraits, extols the virtues of leadership, courage, and loyalty to the sovereign.
Through this portrait, Marc de Beauvau-Craon emerges as one of the leading figures at the court of Lorraine. His armor, the nobility of his pose, and the confidence in his gaze highlight his rank and military virtues.
This portrait offers a rare opportunity to acquire the likeness of one of Lorraine’s most illustrious aristocrats.

Related works:
- Hyacinthe Rigaud, Portrait of Marc de Beauvau-Craon, oil on canvas, h. 139; w. 105 cm, Nancy, Musée Lorrain. Inv. 2005.5.1
- Studio of Hyacinthe Rigaud, Portrait of Marc de Beauvau-Craon, oil on canvas, h. 135; w. 110 cm, Paris, Hôtel de Lauzun
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