Artwork
Anne, Duc de Joyeuse
Anne, Duc de Joyeuse is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Thomas de Leu. It dates from 1590 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Anne, Duc de Joyeuse is a 1590 engraving by Thomas de Leu, a Flemish-born French engraver and printmaker. The print is a formal portrait of a French nobleman.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Anne de Joyeuse, a favorite of King Henry III, with a serious expression and formal attire, suggesting a commemorative purpose. The text surrounding the image provides additional context about the subject.
Technique & Style
De Leu used fine lines to create detailed shadows and textures, particularly in the subject's ruffled collar and hair. The engraving's plain background focuses attention on the subject's expression and the surrounding text.
History & Provenance
Created in 1590, the engraving is an example of de Leu's work in reproductive printmaking, a field in which he produced portraits and other subjects for Parisian publishers.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas de Leu or Leeuw or Le Leup or Deleu (1560–1612) was a French engraver, publisher, and print dealer of Flemish origin.
