Louise Moillon, also sometimes known as Louyse Moillon, was a French still-life painter. In an era where men dominated the art world, Moillon was considered to be one of the finest artists of the 17th century. Primarily a still-life, Baroque painter, her depiction of even a simple bowl of cherries is outstanding in its realistic beauty.

Born in Paris, Moillon was the daughter of painter Nicolas Moillon. Her father died when she was only ten, so instead of training under her father, Moillon received her initial artistic training under her step-father, François Garnier. Moillon showed interest in the arts even as a young girl, and always showed a propensity for drawing and painting.

Moillon was well-received, even as a young artist, and sold her first painting at the age of 19. She is remembered today for her quiet style, which represents the finest that France had to offer in her time. Her compositions were executed with exquisite attention to detail, and indeed have a calm and quiet presence. Though Moillon preferred to paint still-life compositions, in particular of fruit in beautiful Chinese bowls, from time to time, she would also incorporate people into her paintings, still with the same quiet hand.

During her career, Moillon was often commissioned by French nobility to render paintings. In particular, some of her more famous patrons were King Charles I of England, as well as many French nobles. Most of Moillon’s work was created prior to her marriage in the 1640s, typically through the 1630s and earlier.

Today Moillon’s paintings are housed in public collections world wide, in England, the United States, Germany, Spain and of course, France. Moillon’s paintings are also highly coveted in private collections as well, and it is rumored that Queen Elizabeth II herself owns at least four of Moillon’s paintings. Still wondering about a 17th century still-life painting hanging in your home? Contact us…it could be by Louise Moillon.