Artwork
de Villers
de Villers is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
De Villers is a monochrome print portrait from 1801, executed in mezzotint and engraving on wove paper. It depicts a man in profile with distinctive facial features and neatly styled curls, wearing a high-collared coat.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, identified as de Villers, is portrayed in a formal, high-collared coat, suggesting a depiction of dignity or professional stature. The profile view and monochrome technique emphasize his facial characteristics and attire.
Technique & Style
Created using mezzotint and engraving in black, the monochrome approach focuses attention on texture, tone, and the subject's features. This technique, characteristic of Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin's work, enhances the portrait's clarity and formality.
History & Provenance
De Villers is part of the National Gallery of Art's collection. Originally printed on wove paper, it is now mounted on brown wove paper, reflecting conservation or presentation practices.
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.
