Robert Nanteuil (c. 1623-1678)
Portrait of Henri II de La Tour d'Auvergne,
Viscount of Turenne (1611-1675)
1665, engraving on paper, first state of four [?]
19 1/4 x 16 1/16 in. (48.9 x 40.8 cm) (image size)
Gift of Mrs. Frederick Paul Keppel (C00.0802.177)

This sizable portrait of the illustrious Viscount of Turenne, named Marshal of France in 1643, demonstrates that Nanteuil worked in different formats. Here, the artist chose a large copper plate and devoted more space to the sitter. Moreover, he simplified the composition by eliminating the ledge and coat of arms and extending the oval frame closer to the edges of the sheet, the angles of which are embellished by towers. As an adept military commander, Turenne was the subject of contemporary commentaries that emphasized his multifaceted personality, mixing ambition and pride with a kindness and gentleness that Nanteuil conveys here.
The recent unmounting of the print photographed here revealed that it is a facsimile. However, the print on display in the exhibition is an original impression by Nanteuil.