31 - Robert Nanteuil (1625–1678)

Robert Nanteuil (1625–1678) Michel de Marolles. 1657. Engraving (“ad vivum,” from life). 110 x 169 mm. Petitjean-Wickert 152. A very fine print on laid paper, from the first state (of 4), before the addition of the two diagonal lines in the lower left corner of the tablet; trimmed just outside the block margin. From the collection of Chevalier J. Camberlyn (Lugt 514). AABM stamp (Lugt 3075). A man of the Church and a translator, Abbé Michel de Marolles (1600–1681) was one of the greatest collectors of engravings in history, amassing more than 120,000 pieces. In 1667, Colbert purchased this unique collection for King Louis XIV, thereby laying the foundation for the royal print collection. This founding act directly gave rise to the current Department of Prints and Photography at the Bibliothèque nationale de France. His methodical and well-reasoned classification system has had a lasting impact on the history of art and modern conservation principles in France.