Artwork

de Villers

de Villers, by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1809
de Villers, by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin, ink, 1809

de Villers is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower center mount in black ink by unknown hand: De Willers. / De Villers

About this work

Overview

De Villers is a monochrome print portrait from 1801, executed in mezzotint and engraving on wove paper. It depicts a man in profile with distinctive facial features and neatly styled curls, wearing a high-collared coat.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, identified as de Villers, is portrayed in a formal, high-collared coat, suggesting a depiction of dignity or professional stature. The profile view and monochrome technique emphasize his facial characteristics and attire.

Technique & Style

Created using mezzotint and engraving in black, the monochrome approach focuses attention on texture, tone, and the subject's features. This technique, characteristic of Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin's work, enhances the portrait's clarity and formality.

History & Provenance

De Villers is part of the National Gallery of Art's collection. Originally printed on wove paper, it is now mounted on brown wove paper, reflecting conservation or presentation practices.

John Porteous
John Porteous, Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin

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 Villers?

de Villers was painted by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1809.

Where can I see de Villers?

de Villers is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is de Villers?

de Villers is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of de Villers?

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