Jean de Maupeou 1671

This print, "Jean de Maupeou," was made by Robert Nanteuil sometime in the mid-17th century. As an engraver and draughtsman, Nanteuil rendered the Bishop’s likeness through the skilled use of metal tools on a copper plate. Look closely, and you'll see the incredible detail achieved through this process. The textures of Maupeou's robes, his soft, human features, all are created by thousands of tiny engraved lines. This wasn't just a mechanical reproduction, but a labor-intensive process demanding precision and artistry. Engraving was not only a means of artistic expression, but also a crucial tool for disseminating information and imagery in an era before photography. Portraits like these served to immortalize and promote the status of powerful figures like Jean de Maupeou. Consider the immense labor that went into creating this image. The finished print reflects both the status of the sitter and the artistry of the printmaker, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.