Artwork
Pierre Corneille

Pierre Corneille is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Augustin de Saint-Aubin. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:center in plate below medallion: P. CORNEILLE.; lower center in plate below frame: Aug.St. Aubin fecit; lower left in graphite: AVant l' adresse de Renouard.; lower right verso in graphite: 1:50
About this work
Overview
Pierre Corneille is an engraving over etching on laid paper, created by Augustin de Saint-Aubin in 1799. The portrait depicts the renowned French dramatist Pierre Corneille in a contemplative pose.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Pierre Corneille, was a pivotal figure in classical French theatre. The portrait's thoughtful expression and formal attire (notably a high collar) convey his intellectual and esteemed status.
Technique & Style
Executed in black and white, the portrait features a round border framing Corneille's profile, with curly hair and a slightly angled face. The laid paper's textured appearance is characteristic of older prints.
History & Provenance
Augustin de Saint-Aubin, from a distinguished French family of designers and engravers, produced this work in 1799. The inclusion of 'P. CORNEILLE' below the image highlights the subject's fame.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Augustin de Saint-Aubin sometimes styled Auguste de Saint-Aubin (3 January 1736 – 9 November 1807), belongs to an important dynasty of French designers and engravers.














