Blaise de Montluc, Marshal of France

by Thomas Jefferys

This impressive portrait of Blaise de Lasseran-Massencôme, seigneur de Montluc (1501–1577), is of one of the most brilliant military commanders in the 16th century. Montluc gained his fame through participation in the Italian and French Religious Wars and is later made the Marshal of France. He is best known for his Commentaires, described by Henri IV as "The Soldier's Bible."

Whereas Thomas Jefferys became famous as "the Geographer to King George III," he tried his hand at portraiture and showed great talent that was evident from all his other works including well-known map of North America. This particular print shows a high-level combination of engraving artistry and the military glory of France.