Boilly, Parisian Chronicles, Exhibition, Musée Cognacq-Jay, Paris: 16 February-26 June 2022

A virtuosic and prolific artist in a class of his own, Louis-Léopold Boilly (1761-1845) was the enthusiastic chronicler of Parisian life for 60 years, spanning a period from one revolution to the dawn of the next (1789 and 1848). In addition to being a portraitist for the Parisians and a painter of city scenes, Boilly was also the inventor of stunning trompe-l’œil and the author of witty caricatures.

Born in the North of France, Boilly set out to win over the capital at the age of 24, in 1785. He would live there his whole life. Taking little interest in the grand history of Paris, he instead became fascinated by the city’s modernity, its hustle and bustle, and its many spectacles. As a true chronicler of everyday life, Boilly painted an intimate portrait of his generation.

The artist developed a fondness for scrutinising the views and faces he came across in the city. He distinguished himself in the art of portraiture by capturing the faces of Parisians on the small formats that would become his trademark. The portraitist was also a keen caricaturist who looked at his fellow citizens with an amused, and perhaps even scathing eye.

The exhibition also showcases the subtle tricks the artist employed to depict himself in his works. In addition to painting derisive self-portraits and using a variety of signatures, he also slid his likeness amongst the protagonists of his crowd scenes, just as Alfred Hitchcock did in his films. These stratagems establish a knowing relationship between the artist and viewer. Throughout the exhibition, you will be taken along on a fun treasure hunt to find Boilly’s face or clues of his presence.