Page 61 - Spring 2019
P. 61
A portrait miniature of Charles Plantade a French harpsichordist and composer, born in Paris 1764 and died in the same city on December 18 , 1839.
By Jean Baptiste Augustin
H 10.5cm H 41⁄4"
At the age of seven, Plantade entered the school of pages of the king at Versailles . Chosen for their musical abilities, these young people to whom Louis XV gives wages and their families the uniform, are formed under the guidance of a master of music and enliven the court by singing and orchestral practice. Taking advantage of this solid training, Plantade becomes a harpsichordist of very good level, able to accompany multiple sets to the score. These skills open the doors of aristocratic salons always on the lookout for quality music to decorate the balls and receptions.
Appointed in 1799 professor of singing at the Conservatoir, he meets Hortense de Beauharnais , daughter-in-law of Bonaparte , then a pupil, to whom he attaches himself durably and who will support him throughout his career.
5243 (M41)
£ 4,000
1
