Artwork

Portrait of Jacques Lenfant, theologian

Portrait of Jacques Lenfant, theologian, by Bernard Picart, unspecified, 1723
Portrait of Jacques Lenfant, theologian, by Bernard Picart, unspecified, 1723

Portrait of Jacques Lenfant, theologian is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Bernard Picart. It dates from 1723 and is held in the collection of the Leiden University Libraries. Portrait of Jacques Lenfant, a theologian, is an image based on a painting by A.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Jacques Lenfant, a theologian, is an image based on a painting by A. Pesne, depicting the subject in a scholarly setting.

Subject & Meaning

Jacques Lenfant, the theologian, is shown seated at a desk surrounded by books and papers, some of which are likely his own writings, emphasizing his intellectual pursuits. His direct gaze engages the viewer.

Technique & Style

The image employs sfumato, a technique characterized by soft, hazy effects achieved through subtle gradations of tone and color, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the portrait.

History & Provenance

A pencil mark in the lower right-hand corner reads '172', potentially indicating a date, inventory number, or catalog reference, though its exact significance is unclear without further context.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bernard Picart

Artist

Bernard Picart

Bernard Picart or Picard (11 June 1673 – 8 May 1733), was a French draughtsman, engraver, and book illustrator in Amsterdam, who showed an interest in cultural and religious habits.