Who painted Chancellor Michel Le Tellier?

Chancellor Michel Le Tellier was painted by Robert Nanteuil in 1662.

Where can I see Chancellor Michel Le Tellier?

Chancellor Michel Le Tellier is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Chancellor Michel Le Tellier?

Chancellor Michel Le Tellier is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Chancellor Michel Le Tellier

Robert Nanteuil , 1662

Chancellor Michel Le Tellier is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert Nanteuil. It dates from 1662 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1662 by the French engraver Robert Nanteuil, this print portrays Michel Le Tellier, who served as chancellor of France under Louis XIV. Executed as a fine line engraving, the work exemplifies Nanteuil’s role as a leading portraitist at the Sun King’s court, where he produced numerous likenesses of high officials and nobles.

Subject & Meaning

The image presents Le Tellier with wavy hair, a neatly trimmed mustache, and a solemn expression that engages the viewer directly. Dressed in a dark, high‑collared jacket, his dignified bearing reflects the authority of his office, while the focus on his face underscores the importance of personal reputation in 17th‑century French governance.

Technique & Style

Nanteuil employs dense cross‑hatching to model the features, creating a subtle gradation of tone that gives the portrait a three‑dimensional quality. The intricate network of lines renders the texture of the clothing and the flesh, while the dark background isolates the figure, heightening the visual impact of the sitter’s gaze.

History & Provenance

The engraving was produced during Nanteuil’s most productive period at the royal workshop, a time when portrait prints circulated among the aristocracy as symbols of status. Copies of the print entered various private collections in the 18th century and later appeared in museum holdings, documenting the visual culture of Louis XIV’s administration.

Artist & collection

Artist

Robert Nanteuil

Robert Nanteuil (French pronunciation: ; 1623 – 9 December 1678) was a French portrait artist: engraver, draughtsman and pastellist to the court of Louis XIV.