Artwork
Francis Breuil
Francis Breuil is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This small portrait print, measuring 5.
About this work
This small portrait shows Francis Breuil with short hair and a plain coat. His face looks calm, lit softly from the left.
The artist used a special print method called mezzotint. Tiny dots and lines create shadows and smooth tones in one print. It’s a rare portrait in this style from around 1800.
See how the lines blend the light and dark. Look up Saint-Mémin, Charles B. J. Févret de.
Overview
This small portrait print, measuring 5.56 × 5.56 cm, depicts Francis Breuil in a calm demeanor, illuminated by soft left-sided lighting. Executed in mezzotint and engraving on wove paper, it is a notable example from circa 1800.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures Francis Breuil with short hair and a plain coat, conveying a sense of understated elegance. The subject's serene facial expression is the central focus.
Technique & Style
The artist employed mezzotint, a technique characterized by tiny dots and lines, to achieve smooth tonal transitions and nuanced shadows. This method blends light and dark areas seamlessly within the print.
History & Provenance
Created by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin around 1800, the print is now part of the Corcoran Collection.
Context
Notably rare for its time, this mezzotint portrait showcases Saint-Mémin's skill in a less common printmaking style of the era.
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.
