Augustin de Saint-Aubin after Charles-Nicolas Cochin II, Pierre-Jean Mariette, 1765, NGA 66679

Augustin de Saint-Aubin was born in 1736 in Paris, France. He was part of a family of artists and engravers; his father was a painter and his two brothers were also engravers. Saint-Aubin began his career as a designer and engraver for the textile industry. He created designs for fabrics, wallpapers and other decorative objects. His designs were known for their intricate patterns and delicate detail. In addition to his work in the textile industry, Saint-Aubin also created engravings for books and prints. He worked on a number of important publications, including an edition of the works of Molière and a collection of prints depicting the life of Marie Antoinette. Saint-Aubin was also a member of the prestigious Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture. Throughout his career, he exhibited his work at the Salon, an annual art exhibition held in Paris. Saint-Aubin died in Paris in 1807, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful and intricate designs that continue to inspire artists and designers today.