Louis-Jean-François Lagrenée (1725–1805) was a prominent French painter known for his Rococo style, marked by graceful compositions, delicate brushwork, and classical themes. Born in Paris, Lagrenée studied at the prestigious Académie Royale under Carle van Loo, a master of the Rococo movement. In 1749, he won the Prix de Rome, enabling him to refine his skills in Italy, where he absorbed the influences of Renaissance and Baroque art.
Upon returning to France, Lagrenée became a favorite of the French court and exhibited regularly at the Salon, receiving numerous commissions for religious and mythological works. His paintings often depicted scenes from ancient mythology, imbued with elegance and refined detail, such as *The Abduction of Deianira* and *The Allegory of Peace*.
Lagrenée was appointed director of the French Academy in Rome from 1781 to 1787, further cementing his influence in the French art world. His style evolved to incorporate more Neoclassical elements as the Rococo style began to wane. In 1804, he was honored with the title of “First Painter” to the Russian Tsar, reflecting his international acclaim. Lagrenée’s art, celebrated for its charm and refinement, remains a testament to the transition from Rococo to Neoclassicism in 18th-century French painting.