Victor le Bouthillier 1658

Claude Mellan's 1658 engraving, "Victor le Bouthillier," showcases the artist's masterful use of line to create a detailed and expressive portrait. The subject, Victor le Bouthillier, is depicted with a striking realism that captures his age and social status. The delicate lines and cross-hatching technique used by Mellan convey the texture of the subject's clothing and the subtle nuances of his facial features. The surrounding wreath and a coat of arms in the lower center provide an elegant frame for the portrait, adding to the sense of dignity and importance. The engraving, now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, stands as a testament to Mellan's reputation as a leading engraver of the 17th century.