Jean-François Sarrazin 1656

This engraving, titled "Jean-François Sarrazin," was created in 1656 by the celebrated French artist Robert Nanteuil (1623–1678). Nanteuil was known for his meticulously detailed portraits, often executed in a style referred to as "burin" or "line engraving." The image depicts Sarrazin, a French writer and poet, in a three-quarter profile, his face subtly illuminated and his features rendered with great precision. This particular print is a fine example of Nanteuil's mastery of the engraving technique, showcasing his ability to capture both the likeness and the personality of his subject. The inscription at the bottom of the engraving features a verse in French, praising Sarrazin's writing skills and comparing his literary talent to the beauty of his physical form. The piece is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.