Engraving of Poussin’s The Summer (Ruth & Boaz): A Timeless 17th Century Treasure

Engraving of Poussin’s The Summer (Ruth & Boaz): A Timeless 17th Century Treasure Origin: Engraving: Executed by renowned French engraver Jean Pesne around 1690 in Paris, as part of the prestigious Cabinet du Roy series. Painting: Nicolas Poussin’s The Summer (Ruth and Boaz), part of his iconic Four Seasons series, created between 1660 and 1664 and now housed in the Louvre. Art Movement: Classicism Design: Poussin’s original masterwork features a serene pastoral scene imbued with divine providence and human dignity. The engraving mirrors this ideal with its balanced composition, detailed rendering of figures, and the interplay of light and shadow that captures the biblical encounter between Ruth and Boaz. Transformation: The piece evolves from an oil-on-canvas original into a finely detailed copperplate print by combining traditional techniques - beginning with heavy lines etched through an eau-forte process and refined by the burin to enhance every nuance of texture and tone. Materials:  Engraving: Copperplate print using acid etching and precision engraving Dimensions: Height: 73 cm (28.7") | Width: 88 cm (34.6") Painting: 118cm (46.5") x 160cm (63") cm on display Musée du Louvre, Paris Original Engraving Image: Approximately 43cm (16.9") x 59cm (23.2") on a sheet of about 63cm (24.8") x 90cm (35.4") Historical & Cultural Context Before the era of social media and rapid digital sharing, art served as a profound channel for cultural dialogue and historical reflection. Nicolas Poussin’s The Summer (Ruth and Boaz) is a testament to this ethos - a deeply symbolic work bridging the biblical narrative of Ruth and Boaz with the aesthetic ideals of Classicism. Commissioned into the French royal collection and later celebrated by Louis XIV, the painting resonates with themes of divine providence, resilience, and harmonious balance. Jean Pesne’s engraving plays an equally pivotal role. Executed as part of an official royal project, his work disseminated Poussin’s vision far beyond the confines of the Louvre, making classical art accessible to scholars, artists, and enthusiasts across Europe. This engraving is not only an artistic replica but also a cultural artifact that continues to educate and inspire, preserving the integrity of a time when every brushstroke and etched line carried immense social and spiritual significance. Transformation & Artistic Craftsmanship Jean Pesne’s technique exemplifies both technical ingenuity and artistic devotion. His method began with an acid etching - laying down broad, dynamic outlines that captured the composition’s energy. Subsequently, the burin was employed to refine details, transforming Poussin’s vibrant interplay of color and light into a nuanced dance of black and white. Every delicate line - from the textured drapery of the figures to the meticulously rendered sheaves of wheat - attests to a commitment not only to faithful reproduction but to the creation of an independent work of art that upholds the emotional depth and clarity of the original. Provenance & Authenticity The engraving’s authenticity is powerfully reinforced by its historical and material details. The printed plate carries the inscription L’Été ou Ruth et Booz, accrediting both Nicolas Poussin and Jean Pesne, thereby encapsulating its royal provenance. The naturally aged backing, complete with authentic wear, along with detailed close-up images of both the backing and frame, offer transparency about its condition and further attest to its storied past. This careful documentation ensures that collectors and connoisseurs can appreciate not just the aesthetic and historical value, but also the tangible integrity that makes this piece a veritable historical treasure. The Original Frame: A Portal to the Past The frame is not merely a border but an integral part of this artwork’s history: Authenticity & Provenance: Housed in its original carved wooden frame, the piece remains authentically presented as it was meant to be seen. This original framework serves as a tangible link to its 18th‑century origins, reinforcing its prestigious provenance. Artisan Craftsmanship: The frame’s subtle carved details and warm, natural patina echo the refined aesthetic of the period. Its enduring quality - evidenced by natural wear and delicate marks such as foxing - adds character while protecting the delicate engraved paper behind its original glass. Harmonious Integration: The cohesiveness between the engraving and its frame further highlights the work’s historical narrative. Together, they share a story of enduring craftsmanship and heritage, resonating deeply with collectors and design connoisseurs alike. For the Discerning Collector & Design Enthusiast This exceptional engraving is not only a visual treasure but also a compelling conversation piece that radiates timeless elegance. It is perfectly suited for: Antique Collectors & Dealers: Who value pieces steeped in culture and history. Interior Designers & Architects: Seeking to infuse spaces with authentic, sustainable heritage. Art Enthusiasts: Who appreciate the deep interplay between classical art, literature, and biblical narrative. This engraving is more than just a print of the original engraving - it is a living narrative of our past. Jean Pesne’s masterful interpretation seamlessly bridges the 17th-century vision of Nicolas Poussin with today’s appreciation for authenticity and heritage. As you closely examine the detailed images in our interactive gallery and view multiple high-resolution images - from sweeping compositions to intimate close-ups of the aged backing and refined frame - you are invited to witness a dialogue between eras. Each element tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship, historical depth, and cultural revival; a story that continues to inspire, educate, and captivate. Embrace the legacy of a time when art was created and cherished by hand, a legacy that remains ever-relevant in our modern quest for meaningful aesthetics and sustainable beauty. Benefits of Choosing Antique Masterpieces Timeless & Sustainable Elegance: Antiques introduce a distinctive charm into any space, serving as a sustainable design choice that extends the life of beautifully crafted objects. Preservation of Traditional Craftsmanship: Investing in such works supports skilled artisans and the continuation of time-honoured techniques, ensuring that these masterful crafts endure. Positive Environmental Impact: Choosing vintage pieces reduces the demand for new materials, curbs waste and deforestation, and minimizes your overall carbon footprint - a true celebration of sustainability. We do not include delivery in our prices as this is dependent upon many factors such as whether it is mainland or overseas.  The following options are available to you:- You can arrange your own collection from our address You can fill in the delivery request option You can email us for further information if there is more than one item Proovia Delivery offer a 2 person delivery system