Where was François Clouet born and who was his father?
François Clouet arrived in the world within the walls of Tours, born to Jean Clouet. His father was a court painter native to the Southern Netherlands and likely from the Brussels area.
Questions about François Clouet
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did François Clouet first appear in official records as a court artist?
A document dated December 1541 marks the earliest reference to François Clouet in official records. The king renounced his father's estate for the benefit of François, as it had escheated to the crown due to foreign status.
Which portrait by François Clouet is currently held in the Louvre museum?
Perhaps his masterpiece is the portrait of Elizabeth of Austria currently held in the Louvre. This piece made an important impression on Claude Lévi-Strauss decades later.
What death masks did François Clouet prepare for French kings Henry II and Francis I?
He prepared the death-mask of Henry II, as in 1547 he had taken a similar mask of the face and hands of Francis I. These masks ensured the effigy used at the funeral might be prepared from his drawings.
Where did François Clouet reside during his later years in Paris?
François Clouet resided in Paris in the rue de Ste Avoye in the Temple quarter. He lived close to the Hotel de Guise during his later years.