Simon Francois Ravenet

Simon Francois Ravenet (1706–1774) was a French-born engraver who played a key role in the development of British printmaking in the 18th century. Trained in Paris under Jacques-Philippe Le Bas, he moved to London around 1750, where he became known for his precise and elegant line engravings. Ravenet worked closely with prominent artists such as Joshua Reynolds and Francis Hayman, producing high-quality prints that brought fine art to a broader public. He also taught engraving, influencing a generation of British printmakers. His work is recognized for its technical finesse and faithful interpretation of the original compositions.