Artwork
Jeanne d'Albret, Queen of Navarre
Jeanne d'Albret, Queen of Navarre is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Thomas de Leu. It dates from 1597 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1597 engraving on laid paper, created by Thomas de Leu, portrays Jeanne d'Albret, Queen of Navarre, in a formal portrait. Characterized by a circular border with inscriptions, the work showcases De Leu's expertise in reproductive engravings of prominent figures.
Subject & Meaning
Jeanne d'Albret (r. 1555-1572) is depicted in attire typical of 16th-century nobility, conveying her status. Her serious expression and the formal setting underscore her royal persona, while the inscription in the border identifies her as 'Queen of Navarre'.
Technique & Style
The engraving employs cross-hatching, a technique involving closely spaced parallel lines that vary in density to achieve shading and texture. This method, common during the Renaissance, contributes to the work's detailed and intricate visual appeal.
History & Provenance
Produced in 1597 by Thomas de Leu, a Flemish-born engraver and publisher in France, this print was part of his commercial venture in printed portraits of notable individuals. The subject, Jeanne d'Albret, had passed away 25 years prior to the engraving's creation.
Context
Situated within the broader artistic movement of the Renaissance, this engraving reflects the period's emphasis on detailed representation and the dissemination of images of prominent figures through printmaking.
Legacy
As a reproductive engraving, this work contributed to the widespread circulation of Jeanne d'Albret's likeness during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, aiding in the posthumous visibility of her royal image.
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.
