Artwork
William Eaton
William Eaton is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1808 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1808 by Charles B.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower center mount in black ink by unknown hand: Génl. Eaton. / Wm.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1808 by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint‑Mémin, this print presents a formal portrait of William Eaton. Executed in black on wove paper and later mounted to a brown‑toned sheet, the image captures the subject in a composed, serious pose. The work belongs to the Corcoran Collection and exemplifies early‑19th‑century portraiture rendered through printmaking rather than painting.
Subject & Meaning
William Eaton is depicted in full dress, his expression measured and dignified, suggesting the stature of a public figure. The careful rendering of his facial features and the crispness of his attire convey a sense of authority and respectability, typical of portraiture intended to document notable individuals of the period.
Technique & Style
The piece combines mezzotint and engraving, two complementary intaglio processes. Mezzotint provides rich, velvety tonal gradations, while engraving adds precise linear detail, especially evident in the folds of Eaton’s clothing and the subtle modeling of his face. The interplay of light and shadow creates a three‑dimensional illusion, enhancing the lifelike quality of the portrait.
History & Provenance
Since its production, the print has remained within institutional holdings, ultimately entering the Corcoran Collection. Its survival in good condition reflects the durability of the wove paper support and the careful mounting to a brown backing, which has helped preserve the delicate tonal work characteristic of Saint‑Mémin’s printmaking.
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Artist & collection
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.
