Portrait Of Louis XVII In The "psysionotrace" By Beraux And Hourdain ; Revolutionary Period

Memorial Portrait of Louis XVII – Engraving by Hourdain after Jean Duplessis-Bertaux, c. 1793–1795
Description:
A rare and poignant circular engraving in grisaille depicting the Dauphin of France, known as Louis XVII to the royalists (1785–1795). The young prince is depicted in bust form, in full profile, with his long, curly hair.
The print is signed in the lower margin of the composition: “J.D Bertaux delt” (for Jean Duplessis-Bertaux, draftsman) on the left, and “C. Hourdain sculp” (for C. Hourdain, engraver and sculptor) on the right. Produced at the end of the Revolutionary period (circa 1793–1795), this work is part of a body of commemorative prints expressing loyalty to the royal family, which were often distributed clandestinely or with fervor after the death of Louis XVI and during the young prince’s captivity at the Temple. 
The work is presented in its period square, blackened wooden recessed frame, enhanced by a prominent inner band of gilded brass with guilloché pearl-patterned decoration.

• Period: Late 18th century (Directoire, circa 1793–1795)
• Technique: Engraving / Grisaille print on paper
• Artists: Jean Duplessis-Bertaux (1747–1818, draftsman) & C. Hourdain (engraver)
• Condition: Engraving in excellent condition, retaining its freshness with beautiful shades of gray. Original antique frame featuring a natural crack on the top of the darkened wood, attesting to its authenticity without altering its structure.