Artwork

de Lespinasse

de Lespinasse, by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1803
de Lespinasse, by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1803

de Lespinasse is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1803 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower center mount in black ink by unknown hand: de Lespinasse.

About this work

Overview

De Lespinasse is a small print created by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1803 using mezzotint and engraving techniques. It measures 5.72 × 5.56 cm and is part of the Corcoran Collection.

Technique & Style

The print combines mezzotint and engraving on wove paper. Mezzotint allowed Saint-Mémin to achieve smooth transitions and subtle shading, while engraving techniques like cross-hatching added depth and texture to the subject's features and clothing.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a woman's face, rendered in soft black and white tones. The subject's skin appears smooth, and details like her lace collar are crisply defined.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin

Artist

Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin

Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin (French pronunciation: ; 1770–1852) was a French portrait painter and museum director.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted de Lespinasse?

de Lespinasse was painted by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1803.

Where can I see de Lespinasse?

de Lespinasse is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is de Lespinasse?

de Lespinasse is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of de Lespinasse?

Museum-quality prints of de Lespinasse are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.