Nicolas Brulart
1551 to 1600
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 29.5 x 21.4 cm (11 5/8 x 8 7/16 in.) sheet: 37.2 x 26.5 cm (14 5/8 x 10 7/16 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of John O'Brien
Accession Number
1991.164.59
Art Historical Context
Behold the elegant portrait engraving *Nicolas Brulart* by Michel Lasne, masterful work from the late 16 century (circa 1551–1600). Lasne, a skilled French engraver, captures the dignified likeness of Nicolas Brulart—likely a prominent figure of the era, evoking the refined portraiture of the Renaissance. Measuring 29.5 x 21.4 cm on the plate, this print exemplifies the period's fascination with individualized likenesses, bridging painting and printmaking to make elite imagery accessible. Crafted as an engraving on laid paper—a traditional support with visible chain lines that lent texture an...
About the Artist
Michel Lasne · 1590–1667
Michel Lasne (ca. 1590–1667) was a French engraver, draughtsman, and collector who became one of the most prolific printmakers of the French Baroque period. Born in Caen around 1590, Lasne was the son of a goldsmith, which provided him with early exposure to metalworking techniques essential for engraving. His career spanned the reigns of Louis XIII and the early years of Louis XIV, during which h...