A Personification Holding a Book and a Candle

After early training in the workshop of the late Mannerist Lallement, Dorigny became a strict follower, as well as son-in-law, of Vouet. At times, especially during the 1640s, his style follows the master’s so closely as to risk confusion. Generally, it tends to be more abstract, harder in its description, and more superficial in its characterization. Dorigny was also Vouet’s preferred interpreter as a printmaker, producing some ninety reproductive engravings after the master’s compositions. This panel is a lovely example of Dorigny’s style, which is also to say of Vouet’s thriving Parisian workshop. Not only are its finish high and its craft refined, but its condition is superb.