Major General August de la Motte

"Major General August de la Motte," painted by John Singleton Copley in 1776, depicts the French military officer in a formal pose, reflecting the artist's mastery of portraiture and his ability to convey the subject's character and status. The work exemplifies Copley's transition from American colonial themes to a broader European context, highlighting the interconnectedness of transatlantic cultural exchanges during the 18th century.

"Major General August de la Motte," painted by John Singleton Copley in 1776, features a full-length portrait of the subject, depicted in a military uniform adorned with intricate details, including epaulettes and a sash. The composition is characterized by a dramatic use of light and shadow, which enhances the three-dimensionality of the figure against a muted background, emphasizing the general's authoritative presence and dignified posture.