Pierre Corneille - Bernard Picart
Archival giclée
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Made to order
Description
A formal 1718 engraving by Bernard Picart depicting the French dramatist Pierre Corneille, complete with theatrical symbols.
This engraving by Bernard Picart depicts the French dramatist Pierre Corneille. Executed in 1718, the work follows the conventions of formal portraiture common in the early eighteenth century. Picart, a skilled engraver and illustrator, captures the subject within an oval frame, a technique frequently employed to lend a sense of permanence and dignity to the sitter. The portrait shows Corneille with the voluminous periwig characteristic of the period, his expression composed and direct.
The composition incorporates symbolic elements associated with the theatre, reflecting Corneille's status as a playwright. Below the oval frame, masks and a trumpet are arranged, serving as visual shorthand for the dramatic arts. The use of cross-hatching and varied line weights demonstrates the technical precision required for copperplate engraving. The drapery surrounding the frame adds a sense of texture and depth to the overall design, while the inscription at the base provides biographical details, including the subject's birth and death dates.
Bernard Picart was active in both France and the Netherlands, gaining recognition for his meticulous approach to printmaking. His work often involved the documentation of historical figures and cultural practices. This portrait of Corneille is representative of the period's interest in classical literature and the celebration of intellectual figures. The print is a clear example of the formal portrait style that defined much of the visual culture of the era, prioritising clarity, balance, and symbolic representation. The monochromatic palette and the controlled application of shadow ensure that the focus remains on the likeness of the subject, while the surrounding motifs provide context for his professional life.
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
Shipping
We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Pierre Corneille - Bernard Picart
Artist Biography
Bernard Picart
His work focuses on precise linework and mythological subjects. Picart moved away from the heavy styles of the previous century. He preferred clarity and proportion in his compositions. His etchings, such as "Althaea Putting the Fatal Log on the Fire" or his studies of antique gems, show a controlled hand. He often used vignettes and ornaments, including skulls and griffins, to frame larger narratives or to stand as independent decorative elements.
Modern collectors value Picart for his balance of classical themes and clean graphic sensibility. His prints work well in contemporary spaces because they offer historical depth without visual clutter. The monochrome compositions provide a sharp contrast for minimalist or traditional interiors. His focus on symbolic ornaments like the two-headed eagle or Mercury makes his work feel like a curated collection of curiosities for the home.
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