Femme de Boulogne, plate 9 from "Recueil de diverses fig.res étrangeres Inventées par F. Boucher P.tre du Roy et Gravées par F. Ravenet"
Original title: Femme de Boulogne, plate 9 from "Recueil de diverses fig.res étrangeres Inventées par F. Boucher P.tre du Roy et Gravées par F. Ravenet" (Collection of Various Foreign Figures, Devised by F. Boucher, Painter of the King and Engraved [etched] by F. Ravenet)
kurzbeschreibung
This etching, titled 'Femme de Boulogne' (Woman from Boulogne), was made by Simon Francis Ravenet the Elder in the 18th century. It depicts a woman in traditional dress and belongs to a series engraved after designs by François Boucher. The print is executed in etching and engraving.
Description
The woman stands upright in the foreground, her gaze turned to the left. A long, folds-rich gown and a headdress define her appearance. Trees and rocks suggest a rural setting in the background, though they are not clearly elaborated. The image remains black and white, with even lighting and no strong shadows. The layout is clearly structured: the figure occupies the center and faces the viewer.
Context
The etching was created in 18th-century France. It is part of a series of engravings after designs by François Boucher, who held the title of Painter to the King. Simon Francis Ravenet the Elder, a French copperplate engraver, was known for his reproductions after prominent artists. The print belongs to a collection of 'various foreign figures,' which presented exotic or regional types.
Impact
The scene appears calm and dignified; the woman seems composed and self-assured. The delicate linework and detailed rendering of the fabric folds give the print an elegant, almost painterly quality. The shadowy landscape in the background creates depth and highlights the figure.
Technique
Etching and engraving are combined here, allowing precise linework and fine shading. This method enables a nuanced depiction of textures and drapery. The print is on paper and measures 26.5 x 16 cm.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)