Artwork

Title Page

Title Page, by Jean Lepautre, ink, 1650
Title Page, by Jean Lepautre, ink, 1650

Title Page is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jean Lepautre. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Title Page is an etching created by Jean Lepautre in 1650, characterized by intricate, swirling details and symbolic elements.

Subject & Meaning

The print features a central coat of arms held by two cherubs, with a shield bearing a lion and crown, set within a decorative framework of leaves, flowers, and a curved banner with antiquated script. The composition incorporates additional motifs such as scrolls, feathers, and diminutive faces, conveying a sense of opulence and heraldic significance.

Technique & Style

Lepautre employed etching techniques, where ink is retained in carved lines to produce bold, crisp forms. This method, popular in the 17th century, allowed for the creation of highly detailed, layered images like this one.

History & Provenance

Created in 1650, the work reflects the artistic preferences of its time, with no specific provenance details provided beyond its creation date and artist.

Context

The piece situates itself within the broader context of 17th-century printmaking, where etching was valued for its ability to capture intricate designs, often for decorative or heraldic purposes.

Legacy

As a representative of 17th-century etching, Title Page contributes to the understanding of printmaking techniques and aesthetic tastes of the era, though its specific impact or influence on later art movements is not detailed.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean Lepautre

Artist

Jean Lepautre

Jean Lepautre (1618–1682) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.