Who painted H Beard Print Collection?

H Beard Print Collection was painted by R. Tourniere in 1650.

Where can I see H Beard Print Collection?

H Beard Print Collection is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection is a print by R. Tourniere. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The work is a printed portrait depicting Louis Pécour, a notable figure in French ballet.

About this work

This print is a portrait.
It's a portrait of Louis Pécour, which makes it interesting because it gives us a glimpse into the life of a specific person. The fact that it's a print from a long time ago, between the 17th and 19th century, also makes it notable.
You can learn more about prints like this one at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

The work is a printed portrait depicting Louis Pécour, a notable figure in French ballet. Executed as a single-sheet print, it presents the sitter in a formal pose typical of portraiture of the period. The image offers a rare visual record of Pécour’s appearance, contributing to the documentation of performing‑arts personalities from the early modern era.

Subject & Meaning

Louis Pécour, celebrated as a dancer and choreographer at the court of Louis XIV, is the sole focus of the image. By portraying him in a dignified manner, the print underscores his status within the royal ballet establishment and reflects the broader cultural practice of commemorating artists through portraiture.

Technique & Style

The portrait is rendered in a print medium, likely employing engraving or etching techniques common between the 17th and 19th centuries. The line work emphasizes facial features and costume details, while the tonal contrasts create depth without the use of colour, aligning with the restrained aesthetic of contemporary portrait prints.

History & Provenance

The print originates from a period spanning the late 1600s to the early 1800s, a time when printed portraits were widely circulated among court circles and collectors. It is catalogued within the H Beard Print Collection and has been referenced in the holdings of institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, indicating its recognized value as a historical document.

Artist & collection

Artist

R. Tourniere

R. Tourniere made prints between the 17th and 19th centuries, a time when images were etched or carved to share news, portraits, and scenes. Their prints captured everyday life, landscapes, and famous faces in bold…