Artwork

Brooks

Brooks, by Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1797
Brooks, by Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1797

Brooks is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1797 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Brooks is a small profile portrait created in 1808 using mezzotint and engraving techniques on wove paper. Measuring 5.72 × 5.56 cm, it is attributed to Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a man with distinctive facial features, notably a prominent nose and chin, captured in a serious, straight-ahead gaze. His simple attire and minimal background emphasize the focus on his likeness.

Technique & Style

Executed in mezzotint and engraving in black ink, the portrait showcases meticulous detail despite its miniature scale. The artist's use of these techniques achieves a high level of intricacy, drawing attention to the subject's facial features.

History & Provenance

Attributed to Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, the work's provenance and historical context beyond its creation in 1808 are not detailed in available information.

Context

Part of a broader 19th-century portrait tradition, Brooks reflects the era's interest in detailed, intimate representations of individuals, often achieved through precise engraving and mezzotint techniques.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions of Brooks are not highlighted in provided sources, it contributes to the broader understanding of miniature portrait practices during its time.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.