Portrait of Marc de Villiers, Secretaire du roi

Jacques-André-Joseph Aved created a sense of immediacy by depicting Marc de Villiers, a high government official to the court of Louis XV, leaning slightly forward while fixing the spectator with an intense gaze. Behind him an ornate desk is covered with parliamentary and state papers. Grasping the arm of the chair as if about to rise, Villiers holds a copy of Homer's Iliad in his right hand, giving the impression that he has been interrupted while reading. By appearing in his study and in casual dress, the sitter presents himself not only as a high-ranking official but also as a gentleman scholar.