Paulus Constantin La Fargue Paintings

Paulus Constantin La Fargue was an artist of Dutch-French origin, known for his paintings, drawings, and prints. Born in 1729 in The Hague, Netherlands, La Fargue came from an artistic family with his father, Isaac la Fargue, and his siblings also being painters. He was one of the four children of Isaac la Fargue van Nieuwland (1686–1768) and Maria Moens (1698–?). His siblings, Jacob Elias, Karel, and Maria Margaretha, were also artists. La Fargue was primarily known for his cityscapes and landscapes, which depicted Dutch urban life and its surroundings during the 18th century.

La Fargue's works were characterized by their detailed representation of architecture and daily life, with an emphasis on the play of light and shadow. He had a preference for depicting town views, street scenes, and architectural subjects. Despite his French surname, he spent most of his career in the Dutch Republic and was influenced by the Dutch artistic tradition, especially by the works of 17th-century Dutch masters.

His career was relatively short but prolific, and his works were sought after in his time. He was active mainly in The Hague, but also worked in cities like Rotterdam, Delft, and Amsterdam. He was not only an artist but also an art dealer and an entrepreneur, which was not uncommon for artists of that time.

La Fargue's contribution to the art world extends beyond his own works. He taught art to several pupils, thus spreading his influence and style. His works can be found in various museums and private collections, showcasing the urban and cultural landscape of the Netherlands in the 18th century.

Paulus Constantin La Fargue passed away in 1782 in The Hague. While he may not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, his works provide a valuable glimpse into the Dutch Golden Age's lasting impact on the artistic portrayal of urban life.