Artwork
Pierre Payen
Pierre Payen is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert Nanteuil. It dates from 1659 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The engraving *Pierre Payen* is a 1659 portrait by Robert Nanteuil, a prominent French artist known for his detailed and refined works.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a man with curly hair and a serious expression, surrounded by a round border with a textured pattern and a coat of arms below. The subject's identity is revealed through the coat of arms, which features a crown and symbols.
Technique & Style
Nanteuil employed fine lines and shading, achieved through cross-hatching, to create depth and dimension in the portrait. This technique involves layering lines at varying angles to build shadows and texture.
Context
The work is characteristic of 17th-century French portraiture, emphasizing precision and individual character. As an official portraitist for Louis XIV's court, Nanteuil produced detailed likenesses for royal and elite patrons.
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.
