Croix d'autels
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-313-31
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
**Croix d'Autels** *Pierre Germain (French, 1703–1783), 1748* Print; Smithsonian American Art Museum Germain, a distinguished French engraver and gold active during the lavish Rococo period, created *Croix d'Autels* ("Altar Crosses") 1748. As the son of a prominent royal goldsmith, Germain mastered intricate printmaking techniques, producing detailed designs that served as models for artisans crafting religious furnishings. This print exemplifies his expertise in translating opulent three-dimensional objects into precise, two-dimensional engravings, blending technical precision with th...