Hippolyte Féret 1669

Robert Nanteuil created this engraving of Hippolyte Féret, sometime in the mid-17th century. The oval frame of the portrait creates a sense of enclosure, focusing our attention sharply on Féret's face, set against the softer background of the print. The formal elements here are very precise. Note the contrast between the smooth areas of the face and the intricate lines used to depict the clothing. These lines not only define form but also suggest texture and depth, bringing a sculptural quality to the print. The text that encircles the portrait is carefully integrated as a design element, with the lettering conforming to the oval shape. Nanteuil's mastery lies in his ability to create a sense of volume and presence through purely graphic means. The subtle gradations of light and shadow, achieved through careful manipulation of line, give the portrait a lifelike quality. This engraving not only captures Féret's likeness but also serves as a study in the power of line and form to convey complex information.