Anne Vallayer-Coster (1744–1818) was an outstanding French painter, whose name and similar work is less well known than Chardin, her senior by 45 years. Her extraordinary talent was recognized when she was still a teenager. She was elected by unanimous vote to the Royal Academy at age 26, a remarkable achievement occurring at a time when its membership of women was strictly limited. She enjoyed consistent patronage of powerful people throughout her career including the support of Marie Antoinette. Vallayer-Coster survived the revolution despite her aristocratic connections and painted to the end of her life. She is best known for complex florals, still-lifes, portraits, and allegories.
ABOVE: Copy of Anne Vallayer-Coster’s Still Life With Ham, 1767, gouache, 5.25 x 7.25 in (13.34 x 18.41 cm), 8/16/2008
Copy of Anne Vallayer-Coster’s Still Life with Round Bottle, 1770, gouache, 5.25 x 7.25 in (13.34 x 18.41 cm), 7/17/2008
Copy of Anne Vallayer-Coster’s The White Tureen, 1771, gouach, 5.25 x 7.25 in (13.34 x 18.41 cm), 7/18/2008
Copy of Anne Vallayer-Coster’s Still Life with Lemon, 1778, gouache, 5.25 x 7.25 in (13.34 x 18.41 cm), 7/17/2008