Beautiful folio size antique photogravure print from the picture by Hyacinthe Rigaud (click thumbnails above for larger size image).
Printed on heavyweight cream stock. Plate mark present. Reverse side is blank.
It's hard to appreciate the stunning detail and clarity of this print until you see it in person.
A most charming example of Rigaud is his portrait of the young Duc de LesdiguiËres. The duke was only eight years old when the picture was painted, in 1687. He has a blond peruke, holds in his left hand the baton of the commander, and is in armour, as if emphasizing that he was the youngest of a race of soldiers. The tone of the flesh is fine and rarely clear, the complexion charming, the drawing almost a caress, so exquisitely has the point indicated the delicate forms. The large eyes are brilliant with a spirit that seems as gay as it is intense. About the whole figure there are nevertheless a slightness and a transparency in the exquisite flesh, that convey an impression of the delicate health of the young duke who died so early. The picture is Rigaud at his best.
Title: Portrait of Jean-FranÁois-de-Paule de CrÈquy de Bonne, Duke of LesdiguiËres
Publication: Great Masters in the Louvre Gallery
Publication Year: 1899-1900
Publisher: D. Appleton & Goupil & Co. (New York & Paris)
Approximate Page Size (in inches): 12½ x 16¾
Approximate Image Size (in inches): 9 x 11½
Condition: EX. Very clean. There is some chalky substance at the right margin edge.
