Jean Simon Berthélemy: A Baroque Visionary Embracing Rococo Elegance Jean Simon Berthélemy (1743 – 1811) stands as a pivotal figure in French art history, representing the waning years of the Baroque and the burgeoning influence of Rococo aesthetics. Born in Laon, France, he descended from a family steeped in artistic tradition—his father was a sculptor—a lineage that undoubtedly fostered his early fascination with visual representation. Berthélemy’s formal training commenced at the Académie royale de peinture et de sculpture under Noël Hallé, where he honed his skills alongside fellow pupil…