The 18th century drawing portfolio in art

Nicolas Bernard Lépicié, Boy with a Drawing Book. c. 1772 oil on canvas. Rijksmuseum.

Somehow I made it through college dragging along a large burgundy drawing portfolio that was too heavy to carry. Just last year, still stuffed with various papers, the leather straps on it broke! I know I overstuffed it. Here is a glimpse at some 18th century portfolios (also overstuffed!).  A young artist with his own portfolio and Madame du Pompadour's, which had lovely blue straps!




Maurice-Quentin de La Tour, Madame de Pompadour. 1752, pastel. Musée du Louvre.

The portfolio sits on the ground near her feet.  And of course how could we forget that the classic Monkey as Painter.... ! Also with blue straps.


Jean-Siméon Chardin, Monkey as Painter. 1740. Musée du Louvre




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