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Jean Clouet (c. 1485-90?-1540/1)

Francis, Dauphin of France c.1526

RCIN 420070

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Jean Clouet is thought to have been the first individual to realise the possibilities inherent in the small, roundel portraits that were contained within the borders of illuminated manuscripts. This example is one of the earliest independent portrait miniatures ever painted. Freed from the setting of illuminated manuscripts, such portraits were exploited for use as diplomatic gifts and for personal exchanges at the highest court levels.