Title Page

Art Historical Context

Welcome to the National Gallery of, where we spotlight *Title Page*, a captivating etching and engraving from around 1740-1745. Created by master printmakers Jacques-Philippe Le and Jean Eric Rehn designs by the renowned French artist Jean-Baptiste Oudry, this work served as the grand introduction to a printed publication—likely a volume of illustrations showcasing Oudry's signature Rococo flair for elegant, lively compositions. Le Bas, a leading Parisian engraver, and Re, a skilled Swedish collaborator expertly translated Oudry's painterly vision into intricate print form. Etching allowed for fluid, expressive lines mimicking drawing, while engraving added precise, durable detail, making high-quality reproductions accessible beyond elite patrons. This mid-18th-century technique bridged painting and printmaking, democratizing art during France's opulent Rococo era. Acquired through the Print Purchase Fund as part of the esteemed Rosenwald Collection (Department CG-E), this piece highlights the collaborative genius behind decorative arts and book illustration. It invites us to appreciate how such title pages set the tone for immersive visual storytelling, preserving Oudry's legacy in the National Gallery's vast print holdings.