Artwork

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter)

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter), by Etienne Fessard, ink, 1738
Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter), by Etienne Fessard, ink, 1738

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Etienne Fessard. It dates from 1738 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:in plate, at lower left: Chardin Pinx. 1732; in plate, at lower right: E. Fessard Sculp.
Markings
Marked:recto: none; verso: C. Bayard, Lyon (Lugt 496)

About this work

Overview

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter) is a print created by Etienne Fessard in 1738 using etching and engraving techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a seated couple, with the woman sealing a letter with wax and a stamp while the man observes her. The scene implies secrecy, suggesting the letter may be a private or romantic message.

Technique & Style

The image features intricate details, including the couple's elaborate clothing and the textures of their garments, achieved through fine lines and shading. The dark background, with a curtain and window, adds depth to the composition.

L'innocence en danger
L'innocence en danger, Jean Gabriel Caquet

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter)?

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter) was painted by Etienne Fessard in 1738.

Where can I see Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter)?

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter)?

Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter) is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter)?

Museum-quality prints of Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.