Artwork
Francis II, King of France
Francis II, King of France 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
The engraving 'Francis II, King of France' is a print created by Thomas de Leu in 1590. It is a portrait of Francis II, who ruled France briefly from 1559 to 1560.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a youthful Francis II in ornate attire, including a feathered hat and fur collar. The serious expression and simple background focus attention on the subject, while the surrounding text in French suggests a narrative or emotional context.
Technique & Style
The work is an example of engraving, a technique involving the cutting of metal plates to produce detailed images. De Leu's use of this method resulted in a finely rendered black-and-white portrait.
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.
