Edme Quenedey des Ricets
1756 – 1830
In short
Edme Quenedey des Ricets was a French painter and engraver, born in 1756 in Les Riceys and died in 1830 in Paris. He is known for his miniatures, particularly portraits. Quenedey des Ricets' work is characterized by his use of the physionotrace, a tool for creating precise portraits.
Notable works





Early life Edme Quenedey des Ricets was born in 1756 in Les Riceys, France. Initially destined for the priesthood, he instead pursued an artistic career, studying in Dijon. This early exposure to art would shape his future as a painter and engraver.
Career and style Quenedey des Ricets began his career as a restorer of pictures, eventually transitioning to creating his own works. A significant development in his career came with the invention of the physionotrace by Gilles-Louis Chrétien. The physionotrace, a tool used to create precise portraits, was a key factor in Quenedey des Ricets' work, allowing him to produce highly detailed and realistic images. He cooperated with Chrétien in using this tool, which became a hallmark of his style.
Signature techniques Quenedey des Ricets' use of the physionotrace was a defining aspect of his technique. This tool enabled him to create portraits that were highly accurate and detailed, setting him apart from other artists of his time. His mastery of the physionotrace, combined with his skill as a painter and engraver, allowed him to produce works that were both aesthetically pleasing and technically impressive.
Major works Among Quenedey des Ricets' notable works are his portraits, including 'Portrait of a man on ivory' (1787) and 'Portrait of a Man' (1780). Additionally, his portraits of De Lessart (Claude Valdec), such as 'De Lessart (Claude Valdec) Ministre sous Louis XVI massacré à Versailles en 1792 BOYER 1493' and 'De Lessart (Claude Valdec) Ministre sous Louis XVI massacré à Versailles en 1792 BOYER 1492', showcase his ability to capture the likeness and essence of his subjects. Another notable work is 'Constantin T. de la Maisonneuve BOYER 1283', demonstrating his range and skill in portrait painting.
Influence and legacy Quenedey des Ricets' contributions to the art world, particularly in the realm of miniatures and portrait painting, are significant. His use of the physionotrace and his skill as a painter and engraver have left a lasting impact on the development of portrait art. Though his specific art movement is unknown, his work reflects the precision and realism characteristic of late 18th-century French art. His legacy continues to be felt, with his works remaining a testament to his skill and artistry.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Edme Quenedey des Ricets?
Edme Quenedey des Ricets was a French painter and engraver, known for his miniatures, particularly portraits, and his use of the physionotrace.
What style or movement is Edme Quenedey des Ricets associated with?
The specific art movement associated with Edme Quenedey des Ricets is unknown, but his work reflects the precision and realism characteristic of late 18th-century French art.
What are some of Edme Quenedey des Ricets' most famous works?
Some of his notable works include 'Portrait of a man on ivory' (1787), 'Portrait of a Man' (1780), and his portraits of De Lessart (Claude Valdec).
Why does Edme Quenedey des Ricets matter in the history of art?
Quenedey des Ricets matters because of his significant contributions to the development of portrait art, particularly through his use of the physionotrace and his skill as a painter and engraver.
How can I recognize Edme Quenedey des Ricets' work?
His work can be recognized by the high level of detail and realism, often achieved through the use of the physionotrace, and his focus on portrait painting, particularly miniatures.