Denis Talon
1656
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1656
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
Denis Talon is a 1656 ink by Robert Nanteuil, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man with curly hair and a neatly tied cravat. His collar is high, and his expression is calm but serious. The background is plain, but the edges of the frame are packed with swirls, leaves, and small designs that look like they’re carved into the border. The artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture, especially on the man’s face and clothing. This style makes the portrait look detailed even though it’s just ink on paper. Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this one made prints with sharp tools.
