Leonard Limousin

Leonard Limosin, or Limousin, who had executed enamels for Francis I, had been appointed royal enameler to his son and successor, Henry II, in 1548.

For both these monarchs, he has has executed many portraits in enamel—among them quite a number of plaques depicting Diane de Poitiers in various characters, plates, vases, ewers, and cups, besides decorative works for the royal palaces, for, though he is best known as an enameler distinguished for rich color, and for graceful designs in grisaille on black or bright blue backgrounds, he also enjoys a great reputation as an oil-painter.

Limousin collaborates with the Italian Mannerist painter Niccolò dell'Abbate in executing a crucifixion altarpiece for Sainte Chapelle in Paris, which depicts Henry and his queen, Catherine de' Medici, as donors.

Limousin specializes in portraits and executes many for members of the Parisian court.

His elegant and mannered style of portraiture, acquired from dell'Abbate and other artists employed in decorating the royal palace at Fontainebleau, features elongated forms framed with jewel-like decorative motifs to suit the sophisticated tastes of his patrons.

He combines a number of enameling techniques, using opaque enamels, gilding, and grisaille, to achieve rich and elaborate effects.

In addition to court portraits, Limousin enamels various objects, including candlesticks, inkstands, goblets, and chess pieces.