Portrait of Benjamin Franklin (Filleul), 1778 or 1779
Photo by Peter Harholdt, 2004
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Photo by Peter Harholdt, 2004
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France
Anne-Rosalie Bocquet Filleul (Attributed)
Oil on canvas; Framed: H. 47 1/2 in. (120.7 cm), W. 41 1/2 in. (105.4 cm); unframed: H. 35 in. (88.9 cm), W. 27 1/2 in. (69.9 cm); D. frame: 5 in.
Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia, Pa.)
The artist and her husband were acquaintances of Franklin near his home in Passy. The portrait was probably made specifically as the model for an engraving by Louis Jacques Cathelin. Its significance lies in Filleul's representation of Franklin as a neighbor, rather than a statesman or inventor. He wears casual dress and seems to be conversing with friends.
Included in BF300 Exhibit.
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