"By means of impressive examples the catalogue provides a varied insight into the diverse graphic means of expression during this age, in which France developed into the trend-setting nation in the field of art. The exhibition links together the most influential artists of the seventeenth century and the outstanding graphic artists of the eighteenth century. It shows not only Nicolas Poussin's effective landscape studies but also Claude Lorrain's light-filled portraits of nature. Virtuoso and elegant masterpieces by François Boucher and Jean-Honoré Fragonard are placed alongside the moralising genre scenes by Jean-Baptiste Greuze and an imposing creation by Jacques-Louis David"--Provided by publisher.