Joseph-Antoine Moltedo (born 1775)

Moltedo directed Rome’s post office and represented French clergy at the Vatican. He belonged to the officials commissioning portraits from Ingres in Napoleonic Rome. Recognisable scenery connects the sitter with his workplace, while storm clouds surround the still figure.

Moltedo looks directly at the viewer. A carefully outlined face preserves individuality within the official portrait.

A high white cravat frames the neck. Pale fabric separates the head from the broad brown costume.

A broad lapel crosses the chest. Clear clothing boundaries reveal the importance of contour in Ingres’s work.

A hand holds a dark hat at the lower right. The accessory clarifies the figure’s formal arrangement.

Buildings appear beneath a stormy sky. Roman scenery connects the sitter with the city of his administrative service.

Ingres arrived in Rome on an academic scholarship in 1806. He regarded history painting as his highest aim, while portraits remained important commissions among officials and travellers.