Nicholas Desportes Paintings

It seems there might be a mix-up in the information provided. There is no widely recognized artist named Nicholas Desportes whose life spanned from 1646 to 1746. However, it's possible you're referring to Alexandre-François Desportes, a prominent French painter known for his exquisite still lifes, hunting scenes, and animal paintings, who lived from 1661 to 1743. Born in Champigneulle, Ardennes, France, Desportes initially trained under the Flemish painter Nicasius Bernaerts, a pupil of Frans Snyders, which significantly influenced his style and subject matter. Desportes' talent caught the attention of Louis XIV, leading to numerous royal commissions and making him a favorite at the court. He traveled to Poland in 1697, where he painted for the court of John III Sobieski, further enriching his experience and portfolio. Upon his return to France, Desportes continued to receive prestigious commissions, including decorations for the Versailles Palace and other royal residences, establishing him as one of the leading animaliers and still life painters of his time. Desportes’ works are celebrated for their attention to detail, vibrant colors, and the skillful depiction of textures, reflecting both his mastery of painting and his keen observation of nature. His legacy is preserved in many major museums worldwide, where his contributions to French art history, particularly in the representation of animals and nature, are still admired today.