Artwork
Jean de La Fontaine
Jean de La Fontaine is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Augustin de Saint-Aubin. It dates from 1801 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Jean de La Fontaine is an engraving over etching on laid paper created by Augustin de Saint-Aubin in 1801, exemplifying late 18th-century French printmaking traditions in portraiture.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is Jean de La Fontaine, depicted in a contemplative pose with curly hair and a high collar, his face turned slightly sideways within an oval frame. The portrait conveys a sense of introspection.
Technique & Style
The work combines engraving over etching, characterized by fine lines that meticulously render clothing folds and hair texture, highlighting the precision of engraving techniques in capturing detail.
History & Provenance
Created in 1801 by Augustin de Saint-Aubin, a member of a renowned French family of designers and engravers, with the subject's name, 'J. DELAFONTANE,' specified in a text box below the oval portrait frame.
Context
Reflects the artistic engagement of the Saint-Aubin family with the prevalent printmaking and portraiture practices of late 18th-century France.
Legacy
No specific legacy or impact of this individual work is documented in the provided information, focusing instead on its representative role in late 18th-century French printmaking traditions.
Artist & collection
Artist
Augustin de Saint-Aubin sometimes styled Auguste de Saint-Aubin (3 January 1736 – 9 November 1807), belongs to an important dynasty of French designers and engravers.
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