252. 252W Entourage de Charles-André, dit Carle van Loo (Nice 1705-1765 Paris) Le grand seigneur contemplant une sultane assise au centre huile sur toile oil on canvas 120.3 x 160.4cm (47 3/8 x 63 1/8in). sans cadre unframed The present painting depicts an exotic scene with the Grand Seigneur gazing at a seated sultana, likely drawing inspiration from the European fascination with the Ottoman Empire and the turquerie trend of the 18th century. The sultana, resplendent in richly adorned robes, is seated at the center of the composition, while the seigneur stands to the side, his expression contemplative. The work displays van Loo's influence in the detailed rendering of luxurious fabrics and the elegant interplay of light and shadow, reflecting the French Rococo's fascination with opulence and Orientalist themes. Although unsigned, this painting embodies the period's fascination with the exotic and the noble's contemplation of distant cultures, highlighting the refined execution of van Loo's circle in capturing both narrative and grandeur. Veuillez noter que le present tableau est à attribuer à Pierre-Joseph Le Mettay (Fécamp 1726- 1759 Paris). Son dessin préparatoire, signé par l'artiste, a été offert aux enchères à Drouot, Paris le 8 août 2006, lot 37. Le tableau, jusqu’à présent non localisé, était connu par une mention dans une gravure de Lempereur, autrefois conservée dans la collection de Paignon-Dijonval. Please note that the painting is attribuable to Pierre-Joseph Le Mettay (Fécamp 1726- 1759 Paris). Its preparatory drawing was offered at auction at Drouot, Paris on August 8, 2006, lot 37. The present painting, previously unlocated, was known from an engraving by Lempereur formerly in the Paignon-Dijonval collection.