Who painted Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban?

Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban was painted by Louis Bernard in 1688.

Where can I see Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban?

Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban?

Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban

Louis Bernard , 1688

Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban is an ink print by the Baroque artist Louis Bernard. It dates from 1688 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Portrait of M.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of M. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban is a mezzotint print created by Louis Bernard in 1688, depicting a dignified portrait of its subject in black and white.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait honors Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban, a prominent military figure, capturing his serious demeanor. His attire, including a ruffled collar and dark coat, conveys his elevated status.

Technique & Style

Executed in mezzotint, the work showcases smooth transitions between light and shadow, achieved through this technique. Soft lighting emphasizes the subject's face against a dark background, employing principles akin to chiaroscuro.

History & Provenance

Created in 1688 by Louis Bernard, specific details on the print's history and ownership are not provided in the available information.

Context

The portrait reflects 17th-century European artistic tendencies in portraiture, combining technical innovation (mezzotint) with traditional representation of authority figures.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts or notable exhibitions of this piece are not detailed, it contributes to the broader legacy of mezzotint technique in European art history.