{"product_id":"antique-engraved-print-wille-rigaud-duke-of-belle-isle-1743-period-frame","title":"Antique engraved print, Wille\/Rigaud, Duke of Belle-Isle 1743 , period frame","description":"\u003cp\u003eSize:  Frame 53 x 67 cm, print inside mount 49 x 35 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Print in very good condition, a strong impression.  Period frame with some losses and retouching to the outside moulding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis superb print was engraved by Johann Georg Wille in 1743, after the portrait painted in 1713 by Hyacinthe Rigaud.  We believe the original painting does not exist, although some copies do.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis engraving was commissioned by Rigaud himself, and together with an engraving of a portrait of Rigaud's wife, established Wille as a sought after artist. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharles Louis Auguste Foucquet Duke of Belle-Isle (1684-1761) was a French General and Statesman.  Here he is shown at the age of 29, in armour and holding his Marshall's staff, half turned with a self satisfied expression, a battle raging in the background behind him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohann Georg Wille (1715-1808) was born in Germany but spent most of his life in France, working as an engraver and art dealer. After he became established as an engraver, Wille acquired French citizenship, was designated \"engraver to the King\" and in 1761 became a member of the Academié Royale. He also amassed a considerable fortune, most of which he lost during the French Revolution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis impression of the print is on wove paper, so it is later than the engraving, probably early 19th century.  The frame, which is gesso, lacquer and gilt on wood, is about the same age or possibly a bit older than the print.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chester's Farm Gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53372485796177,"sku":null,"price":180.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1032\/4312\/0977\/files\/Wille_1.jpg?v=1782592350","url":"https:\/\/chestersfarmgallery.com\/products\/antique-engraved-print-wille-rigaud-duke-of-belle-isle-1743-period-frame","provider":"Chester's Farm Gallery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}