Portrait of Madame Helyot - Nicolas Bazin

A 1688 engraving by Nicolas Bazin depicting Madame Helyot in a moment of religious reflection, featuring fine line work and period-appropriate iconography.

This engraving by Nicolas Bazin, dated 1688, depicts Madame Helyot in a pose of religious contemplation. Bazin, a French engraver active in Paris during the late seventeenth century, was known for his technical precision in reproducing portraits and religious subjects. The composition follows the conventions of the period, presenting the subject in a half-length format against a dark, neutral background that directs attention to her expression and gestures.

Madame Helyot is shown holding a crucifix in her right hand, while her left hand is raised in a gesture of supplication or discourse. She wears a dark garment with a light-coloured collar and a head covering, suggesting a state of mourning or religious devotion. On the table beside her, a small stack of books and a chain are visible, elements that reinforce the theme of penitence. The engraving technique employs fine lines and cross-hatching to create volume in the drapery and subtle shading across the face, demonstrating the artist's control over the medium.

Below the image, the print includes the title and a short French verse. The text expresses a plea for divine mercy, aligning with the visual cues of the crucifix and the books. This work provides a clear example of the portraiture style prevalent in French printmaking during the reign of Louis XIV, where religious piety was a common subject for both artists and their patrons. The print is marked with the phrase 'Avec Privil. du Roy', indicating that it was produced under royal authority, a standard practice for significant publications of the era. The clarity of the lines and the balanced composition reflect the formal rigour of the French Baroque tradition.