Portret van Jean-Baptiste Chappe d'Auteroche before 1781

This engraving, created by Johann Michael Söckler before 1781, depicts Jean-Baptiste Chappe d'Auteroche, a French astronomer. The portrait is presented in an oval frame, a common practice in 18th-century portraiture. The artist utilizes a detailed hatching technique to create subtle tonal variations in the image, emphasizing the sitter's facial features and the texture of his clothing. The inscription "J.B. Chappe D'Auteroche" below the portrait identifies the subject. This engraving is a fine example of portraiture during the Enlightenment period, highlighting the importance of scientific figures.