Etienne Jehandier Desrochers Paintings

Étienne Jehandier Desrochers was a French engraver known for his portraits and reproductive prints after the works of famous painters of his time. Born in 1668 in Lyon, France, Desrochers developed an interest in art at a young age and pursued his passion by learning the craft of engraving. He moved to Paris to further his artistic career, where he worked and honed his skills.

Desrochers became well-known for his ability to capture the likeness and character of the individuals he portrayed, which included many important personalities of the period. He produced a significant number of portrait engravings, which were highly sought after by collectors. His work often involved engraving portraits based on paintings by contemporary artists, and he had a particular talent for translating the painterly qualities of these works into the medium of printmaking.

During his career, Desrochers produced over a thousand engravings. His engravings were notable for their intricate detail and the skillful use of line to create texture and depth. He was adept at both producing his own original compositions and in creating prints after other artists' works. Desrochers’ engravings were not just portraits; he also depicted historical and mythological scenes, as well as religious subjects, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Desrochers' works were widely disseminated and contributed to the spread of the reputation of the individuals he portrayed. His prints serve as valuable historical records of the cultural and intellectual figures of his era. Desrochers passed away in 1741 in Paris, leaving behind a legacy as one of the prominent engravers of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. His body of work remains of interest to art historians and collectors who study the period and has been preserved in various museums and collections around the world.