Robert Nanteuil (1623-1678)
After Pierre Mignard (1612-1695)
In collaboration with François Chauveau (1613-1676)
and Pierre Van Schuppen (1629-1702)
Cardinal Jules Mazarin (1602-1661)
Seated Within the Gallery of His Palace
1659, engraving on paper, second state of two [?]
17 7/16 x 22 7/16 in. (44.3 x 57 cm) (image size)
Gift of Mrs. Frederick Paul Keppel (C00.0802.132)

In this striking print, Cardinal Mazarin, shown surrounded by scientific tools, maps and art objects, is represented as a scholar and connoisseur. The dramatic folds of his garment echo those of the curtain, which is pushed back to reveal his remarkable collection of painting and ancient sculpture. Mazarin, Anne of Austria’s Prime Minister, was likely responsible for introducing Nanteuil to the Court. Here, the artist referred to a portrait by Mignard to capture the Cardinal’s likeness, while Chauveau is credited for the composition and van Schuppen translated part of it with the burin. Indeed, Nanteuil often relied on assistants for the engraving of elements secondary to the faces.