Alphonse III Delbène, Bishop of Orléans 1646 - 1665

Claude Mellan's "Alphonse III Delbène, Bishop of Orléans" is a 17th-century engraving that depicts the bishop in an oval portrait, emphasizing his clerical garb and facial features. The work exemplifies the detailed, meticulous style of line engraving that characterized Mellan's artistic approach. Executed between 1646 and 1665, the print showcases the artist's mastery of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and realism in the portrait. The inclusion of the bishop's coat of arms at the bottom adds a heraldic dimension to the artwork, reinforcing the subject's official status. This engraving, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a testament to Mellan's contribution to portraiture and the art of engraving.