Artwork
Mrs. Smith
Mrs. Smith is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1801 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. 'Mrs.
About this work
Overview
'Mrs. Smith' is a print created by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin using mezzotint and engraving techniques on wove paper. The artwork is dated to the early 19th century.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a woman seated against a plain background, wearing a dark dress with white lace trim at her neck and wrists. Her hair is pulled back tightly, and her face is softly lit, conveying a calm demeanor.
Technique & Style
The mezzotint technique, which involves roughening metal plates to achieve soft shadows, is employed to create a nuanced representation of the subject. The contrast between the softly lit face and darker clothing is a notable aspect of the print.
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.
