The painter Louis Tocqué was accepted into the French Académie Royale in 1734. His work was highly sought after at that time. He was much admired for his ability to evoke an informal atmosphere, while nevertheless meticulously rendering his sitter’s sumptuous clothing and accessories. Arnoldus van Rijneveld’s fashionable outfit, undoubtedly from Paris, is made of velvet embroidered with gold thread.