Artwork
Ann Plume Herron
Ann Plume Herron is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1808 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Ann Plume Herron is a portrait print created by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1808, utilizing mezzotint and engraving techniques on black wove paper, later mounted to brown wove paper. The compact work measures 5.72 × 5.72 cm.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a woman, identified as Ann Plume Herron, with her hair pulled back and wearing a simple dress. The focus is on capturing her facial details.
Technique & Style
Saint-Mémin employed mezzotint to achieve subtle tone variations, complemented by engraving to create intricate lines, texture, and depth. This technical combination required significant skill.
History & Provenance
The print is part of the Corcoran Collection, indicating its historical preservation and public accessibility.
Context
Created in 1808, the work reflects the artistic preferences of the late 18th to early 19th century, where detailed portraiture was valued. Saint-Mémin's use of mezzotint aligns with the period's exploration of printmaking techniques.
Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin (French pronunciation: ; 1770–1852) was a French portrait painter and museum director.
