St. Francis (?)

Art Historical Context

This delicate engraving, tentatively titled *St. Francis*, showcases the collaborative talents of French artists Pierre Landry, Laurent de Hyre, and D. Thierry. Created in an undated work from the 17th century it exemplifies the Baroque era's emphasis on religious devotion through intricate printmaking. De La Hyre, a painter known for his elegant history scenes, likely provided the design, while Landry and Thierry executed the engraving—a meticulous technique involving incising fine lines into a metal plate to produce detailed, reproducible images. Measuring 12 3/16 x 7 11/16 inches, the print captures a male saint, possibly St. Francis of Assisi, revered for his humility and bond with nature. Engravings like this were vital in the Counter-Reformation, spreading saintly imagery to the faithful beyond grand cathedrals, making spirituality accessible and intimate. Acquired through the Harris Brisbane Dick Fund in 1953, this piece resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department. Its subtle lines invite close inspection, revealing the era's technical mastery and enduring cultural reverence for saints.