Artwork
Cardinal Jules Mazarin
Cardinal Jules Mazarin is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert Nanteuil. It dates from 1656 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1656 engraving by Robert Nanteuil portrays Cardinal Jules Mazarin, a prominent figure in 17th-century French politics. Created during Nanteuil's tenure as engraver to the French court under Louis XIV, the work exemplifies his specialization in detailed portrait engravings.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Cardinal Jules Mazarin, was an Italian-born chief minister to Louis XIV's mother, Anne of Austria, highlighting his significant influence at the time. The inclusion of a coat of arms beneath the portrait underscores his noble and official stature.
Technique & Style
Nanteuil employed sharp linework and nuanced shading to achieve depth and texture, evident in the rendering of Mazarin's curly hair, mustache, ruffled collar, and the intricate wreath framing his face. Fine lines were meticulously used to build up shadows, enhancing the image's dimensionality.
History & Provenance
Produced in 1656, the engraving was created while Nanteuil served the French court. Specific details about its provenance (ownership history) are not provided in the available information.
Context
This work reflects the artistic preferences of the mid-17th century French court, where detailed, realistic portraiture was valued. It also captures the political landscape of the time, portraying a key figure in the French monarchy's administration.
Legacy
While the broader impact of this specific engraving on subsequent art or historical documentation is not detailed in the provided information, it contributes to the historical record of Cardinal Mazarin's likeness and Nanteuil's contributions to portrait engraving.
Artist & collection
Artist
Robert Nanteuil (French pronunciation: ; 1623 – 9 December 1678) was a French portrait artist: engraver, draughtsman and pastellist to the court of Louis XIV.
