Artwork
de Rochemont
de Rochemont is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1806 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1806, this print by Charles B.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1806, this print by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint‑Mémin depicts a seated gentleman rendered in black mezzotint and engraving. The image is executed on wove paper that has been mounted to a brown‑toned backing, and it forms part of the Corcoran Collection.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is shown with light, curly hair, dressed in a dark coat adorned with prominent round buttons and a high white collar. The careful rendering of his attire and hairstyle implies a person of social standing, though no identifying inscription accompanies the image.
Technique & Style
Saint‑Mémin employed the mezzotint process to achieve rich tonal gradations, complemented by fine engraving lines for detail. The combination of these techniques on wove paper allows for a smooth surface and subtle contrast, characteristic of early‑19th‑century portrait prints.
History & Provenance
The work entered the Corcoran Collection, a major American art institution, where it remains catalogued under the title de Rochemont. Its provenance prior to acquisition by the museum is not documented in the available records.
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.
