Barthelemy Tremblay

Barthelemy Tremblay

Michel Lasne

1639

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows a serious-looking man with a mustache and curly hair, framed by a fancy stone-like border. Above his head, the words *"Valet de Chambre du Roy"* are carved in. The border has ornate carvings: a skull with wings, a crown, and two cherubs holding tools. Below the man, there’s a banner with French text. The skull and wings are a classic symbol for death, but here it’s mixed with royal titles. This kind of mix was common in Baroque art—showing power and mortality together. Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints.

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