Joseph Vivien: A Pastel Pioneer Shaping Bavarian Portraiture Joseph Vivien (1657 – 1734) stands as a pivotal figure in the history of French pastel painting, recognized for his groundbreaking approach to capturing likeness and emotion. Born in Lyon, France, he embarked on an artistic journey that spanned across Europe, leaving indelible marks on both artistic innovation and royal patronage. His formative years were spent honing his skills within the influential atelier of Charles le Brun, arguably the most prominent academy painter of his era—a crucible for shaping stylistic sensibilities an…