Antoine de Favray Paintings

Antoine de Favray was a French painter, born in 1706 in Bagneux, France. He is known for his works in the Rococo style, which was popular during the mid-18th century. Favray received his artistic training in Paris, where he was influenced by the works of French masters such as François Boucher and Jean-Honoré Fragonard. His early works were mainly religious in theme, reflecting the prevailing tastes of the time.

In 1744, Favray moved to Malta, where he became a court painter to the Grand Master of the Order of St. John, Pinto da Fonseca. His time in Malta was highly productive, and he created numerous portraits and religious works that combined the grandeur of Baroque art with the elegance and lightness of Rococo. Favray's paintings from this period often included detailed depictions of fabrics and textures, showcasing his skill in rendering different materials.

Favray's most notable works during his stay in Malta include a series of portraits of the Knights of Malta, which are celebrated for their detailed representation of the sitters' personalities and the regal ambience of the period. He also produced a notable series of paintings depicting the life of St. Paul in Malta, which are considered to be among his masterpieces.

After a long and successful career in Malta, Favray returned to France in the late 18th century, where he continued to paint until his death in 1798. His work has been recognized for its historical value, providing a visual record of the aristocracy and religious life in Malta during the 18th century, as well as for its artistic merit. Today, Antoine de Favray's paintings can be found in various museums and art collections around the world, particularly in Malta and France, where they serve as a testament to the cross-cultural artistic exchange of the 18th century and the enduring appeal of the Rococo style.