Artwork
Jean Jacques Rousseau
Jean Jacques Rousseau is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Pierre-Michel Alix. It dates from 1791 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The name "Jean Jacques Rousseau" is written below the image, and the date "An 111-1803" appears in the corner.
This is a round portrait of a man with gray hair and a serious expression. He’s wearing a dark coat over a light shirt with buttons down the front. The background is plain and dark, putting all the focus on his face.
The name "Jean Jacques Rousseau" is written below the image, and the date "An 111-1803" appears in the corner. This suggests it was made after his death.
Check out the technique: etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.
Overview
This 1791 print is a portrait of Jean Jacques Rousseau, created by French engraver Pierre-Michel Alix using color etching and wash manner on laid paper. The portrait is round in format and depicts Rousseau with a serious expression.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait shows Rousseau, a significant figure, with gray hair, wearing a dark coat over a light shirt. The plain dark background emphasizes his face. The inclusion of his name below the image and a date in the corner, 'An 111-1803', indicates the print was made posthumously.
Technique & Style
Alix employed etching and wash manner to achieve a detailed representation. Etching allowed for the creation of intricate lines and textures, contributing to the overall effect of the portrait.
History & Provenance
Alix was trained under Jacques-Philippe Le Bas and is known for his portraits of prominent figures during the French Revolution and First French Empire. His works are preserved in notable institutions, including the Louvre's Cabinet des estampes and France's Bibliothèque nationale.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pierre-Michel Alix (1762 – 27 December 1817) was a French engraver. He studied under Jacques-Philippe Le Bas and was best known for his portraits of notable figures during the French Revolution and First French Empire.…
