Nicolas Lancret

Nicolas Lancret painted the light, elegant world of early 18th century France: couples in parks, dances, picnics, games and village weddings, with pale silks, feathery trees and soft skies. He is a leading painter of the fête galante, the genre made famous by Watteau.

He was born and died in Paris. He studied with Claude Gillot and followed closely in the manner of Watteau, whom he greatly admired. He was received into the Royal Academy in 1718 and became one of the most popular painters of the day, with Frederick the Great among his collectors. The National Gallery in London holds several of his works, including his series of the times of day.

In Billiard Players and Company in the Park, look at the small, lively figures and the careful rendering of fashionable clothes.