Mathieu Molé 1648 - 1658

Robert Nanteuil created this print of Mathieu Molé using engraving techniques. Nanteuil was one of the most celebrated printmakers of his day, known for his refined approach. This image would have been made by incising lines directly into a copper plate with a tool called a burin. The depth and spacing of these lines determine the tonality and texture of the final print. Look closely, and you can see the extraordinary level of detail he achieved, particularly in the rendering of Molé’s face and beard. Prints like this were crucial to the circulation of images and ideas in the 17th century. They democratized access to portraiture, previously reserved for the wealthy who could commission paintings. While Nanteuil's artistry is evident, we should also remember the labor involved – the skilled work of cutting the plate, and the repetitive task of printing impressions. This piece sits at the intersection of art, craft, and the burgeoning print industry.