Nicolas Régnier

The canvas appears to be unlined, the support is in good condition and the paint surface is stable, though the darks have sunk a little into the background. There is a small repaired puncture on the sitter's right shoulder of approx. 1/2 by 1/2 in. Inspection under UV is not possible due to an even, green varnish which masks the surface, though possible fine lines of retouching appear scattered through the background when viewed in raking light. Offered in an elaborate carved gilt wood frame.
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An accomplished portraitist, Nicolas Régnier moved to Rome between 1615 and 1625, where his work became heavily influenced by the dominant style of Caravaggio.  In this portrait the artist expertly employs a soft chiaroscuro effect combined with a limited chromatic scale to emphasize the contours the sitter’s face, his heavy lidded eyes and full lips.  The sensitive treatment of the face contrasts with the swift and painterly handling of the black coat and white collar, implied with rapid, broad strokes.  This portrait is a refined and striking addition to Regnier’s oeuvre and a superb example of the French Caravaggesque movement.