Artwork
Pompone II de Bellievre
Pompone II de Bellievre is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert Nanteuil. It dates from 1653 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Robert Nanteuil’s 1653 engraving of Pompone II de Bellievre presents a stark, monochrome portrait that isolates the sitter against an entirely black background.
Robert Nanteuil’s 1653 engraving of Pompone II de Bellievre presents a stark, monochrome portrait that isolates the sitter against an entirely black background. The figure is rendered with a heavy fur collar and a composed expression, emphasizing his status and demeanor. The work exemplifies the use of print media in the mid‑seventeenth century to circulate images of notable individuals within the French court.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Pompone II de Bellievre, a nobleman whose precise identity remains tied to the aristocratic circles of Louis XIV’s reign. His curled hair, mustache, and sumptuous fur collar convey both personal grooming and the wealth associated with high rank. The darkness surrounding him focuses attention on his visage, suggesting a dignified, almost solemn presence.
Technique & Style
Nanteuil employed fine, parallel lines and cross‑hatching to model the textures of hair, fur, and fabric, achieving subtle gradations of tone without any color. The engraving was cut into a copper plate, allowing repeated impressions. The meticulous line work and controlled chiaroscuro reflect Nanteuil’s reputation for precision and his contribution to the refinement of French portrait engraving.
History & Provenance
Created during Nanteuil’s tenure as a court portraitist, the print was likely intended for distribution among the aristocracy and royal patrons. As a product of the 1650s, it aligns with the broader trend of using engraved portraits to document and promote the images of influential figures. The work remains a documented example of Nanteuil’s output for the French monarchy.
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.
