Le B. François de Sales, Evesque et Prince de Genève, fondateur de l'Ordre de la Visitation 1720 - 1760

This is Grégoire Huret’s “Le B. François de Sales,” a 17th-century engraving of Bishop François de Sales, founder of the Order of the Visitation. The composition draws us in with a dramatic flair, where the saint is positioned in a space that merges the earthly with the divine. Note the artist’s precise lines which give texture and depth to the scene. Observe how Huret uses contrasting tones to create the visual hierarchy and draw our attention to the Bishop. The upper portion of the print shows angels holding open books, juxtaposed with the lower section showing the Bishop seated at his desk with a book and quill, writing. The architecture on the left and the interior space on the right create a diagonal pull that moves the eye throughout the work. Huret skillfully balances formal representation with symbolic imagery, inviting us to reflect on the relationship between earthly actions and heavenly inspiration.