Artwork
Cardinal de Bouillon
Cardinal de Bouillon is an ink print by the Baroque artist Claude Mellan. It dates from 1673 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Cardinal de Bouillon is a 1673 engraving on heavy laid paper by Claude Mellan, portraying a dignified clergyman in meticulous detail.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, identifiable by the star on his cloak, is likely a cardinal of the Bouillon family. The coat of arms on the pedestal beneath his head further emphasizes his noble and ecclesiastical status.
Technique & Style
Mellan employed fine, intricate line work characteristic of engraving to capture the textures of the subject's curly hair, trimmed beard, and folded clothing, as well as the architectural details of the pedestal.
History & Provenance
Created in 1673, specific details about the work's provenance or original commission context are not provided in the available information.
Context
This engraving reflects the 17th-century practice of creating detailed portraits of high-ranking religious figures, utilizing the precision of engraving to convey dignity and status.
Artist & collection
