Antoine Pesne (1683-1757) – Self-Portrait with the daughters Henriette and Marie front of the easel Part 1

The composition presents a man seated before an easel, flanked by two young women. He is positioned centrally and slightly angled towards the viewer, his gaze directed outward with a confident expression. The man wears a rich velvet coat, indicative of status and profession, and holds a paintbrush in his hand, resting on a palette. An easel stands close to him, suggesting he is engaged in the act of painting, although the canvas itself remains unrevealed.
Behind him stand two women, presumably his daughters, dressed in elaborate gowns characteristic of the period. The woman closest to him wears a floral-adorned hat and holds a paintbrush herself, hinting at an artistic inclination or perhaps participation in the depicted scene. The other young woman is positioned slightly forward, her face turned towards the viewer with a gentle smile. A small dog sits nestled between them, adding a touch of domesticity and affection to the familial grouping.
The background is dark and indistinct, drawing attention to the figures in the foreground. It appears to be an interior space, possibly a studio or well-appointed room, suggested by the presence of draped fabrics and scattered art supplies – brushes, pencils, and what seems to be a sketchbook – on the floor near the young woman’s feet. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting the textures of the clothing and creating a sense of warmth and intimacy.
Beyond the straightforward portrayal of a family, the painting conveys several subtexts. The inclusion of the easel and paintbrush directly references the mans profession as an artist, establishing him not merely as a patriarch but also as a creator. His confident posture and direct gaze suggest self-assurance and professional pride. The presence of his daughters, one seemingly engaged in artistic pursuits, implies a desire to pass on his skills and legacy. The dog’s inclusion reinforces the sense of familial harmony and domestic comfort.
The overall impression is one of prosperity, refinement, and intellectual engagement. Its not simply a portrait; its a carefully constructed representation of a family defined by artistic talent and social standing, presented with an air of quiet dignity and accomplishment.