Artwork
Pierre de Marcassus
Pierre de Marcassus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Michel Lasne. It dates from 1656 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 17th-century engraving on laid paper, dated circa 1656, portrays Pierre de Marcassus in profile against a plain background, emphasizing intricate details.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving focuses on the likeness of Pierre de Marcassus, capturing his facial features, curly hair, mustache, and attire, including a ruffled collar and vertically striped jacket, with direct eye contact engaging the viewer.
Technique & Style
Executed in the Flemish Baroque tradition, the work showcases meticulous cross-hatching to achieve depth and texture, particularly in shading the subject's face and clothing.
History & Provenance
Created by Michel Lasne, official engraver to King Louis XIII since 1633, after training with Rubens and Van Dyck in Antwerp before settling in Paris by 1621.
Context
Reflects Lasne's blend of Flemish training and French courtly engagement, typical of early 17th-century artistic exchanges between the Netherlands and France.
Legacy
Contributes to the oeuvre of Michel Lasne, illustrating the enduring influence of Flemish Baroque techniques in French portrait engraving of the period.
Artist & collection
Artist
Michel Lasne (Caen, ca. 1590–4 December 1667, Paris), was a French engraver, draughtsman and collector. Lasne was born in Caen and was the son of a goldsmith. He was a member of the Guild of Saint Luke in Antwerp for…
