Who painted Cardinal de Polignac?

Cardinal de Polignac was painted by François Chereau I in 1729.

Where can I see Cardinal de Polignac?

Cardinal de Polignac is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Cardinal de Polignac?

Cardinal de Polignac is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Cardinal de Polignac

François Chereau I , 1729

Cardinal de Polignac is an ink print by the Baroque artist François Chereau I. It dates from 1729 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. François Chéreau I’s 1729 engraving presents the French cardinal known as de Polignac.

About this work

Overview

François Chéreau I’s 1729 engraving presents the French cardinal known as de Polignac. Executed in black‑and‑white, the image shows the cleric seated, his posture dignified, with a book opened in one hand and the other arm resting on the chair’s arm. The composition is framed by a plain backdrop that emphasizes the figure’s elaborate costume and insignia.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait identifies the sitter as Cardinal de Polignac, a high‑ranking ecclesiastic distinguished by the star‑shaped badge on his chest, a symbol of his cardinalate. The inclusion of an open book suggests scholarly or theological authority, while his solemn expression and formal pose convey the gravitas associated with his religious and political roles in early‑18th‑century France.

Technique & Style

Created by incising a metal plate, the engraving employs fine line work to render intricate details such as the lace trim on the robe, the curls of the wig, and the texture of the fabric. The stark contrast of ink against the paper produces a crisp, precise image characteristic of French printmaking in the early Georgian period.

History & Provenance

The print was produced in 1729, during a prolific period for Chéreau’s workshop, which specialized in portrait engravings of notable figures. While the original plate’s whereabouts are undocumented, surviving impressions have appeared in collections of French portraiture and are occasionally referenced in catalogues of 18th‑century prints.