George de Marees Paintings

George de Marees, also known as Georg Desmarées or Georges Desmarees, was a prominent portrait painter of the Rococo period. Born in 1697 in Hanau, Germany, he was the son of a painter, and thus, art played a significant role in his early life. He initially learned the basics of painting from his father, but his talent soon necessitated more formal training. To further his education, he moved to Paris where he studied under the well-regarded French painter Alexis Grimou, whose influence is evident in de Marees's early works.

De Marees's early career was marked by his travels around Europe; after his studies in Paris, he spent time in Venice. Italy, and particularly Venice, was a hub for artists at the time, and the experience enriched de Marees's understanding of color and composition. He absorbed the Venetian colorism and the theatricality of the Baroque, which would later be reflected in his own style. His work eventually caught the attention of the Swedish diplomat and art collector Count Carl Gustaf Tessin, who recommended de Marees to the Swedish court.

In 1740, George de Marees moved to Sweden, where he became a court painter to the Swedish monarchy. His portraits of royalty and nobility are characterized by a combination of elegance, rich color, and a certain theatricality, which became his signature style. His works from this period reflect the opulence and decorative qualities of Rococo art, with a clear emphasis on the grandeur and status of his subjects.

Throughout his career, de Marees enjoyed significant success and recognition. He was appointed as a professor and later served as the director at the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts. His impact on Swedish art was profound, and he influenced a generation of Swedish artists. His portraits are still celebrated for their vividness and attention to detail.

George de Marees died in 1776 in Stockholm, Sweden, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important portrait painters in Northern Europe during the 18th century. His artworks continue to be studied and admired for their contribution to Rococo art and for their historical significance in portraiture.