Frontispiece of the Encyclopédie
Charles-Nicolas Cochin · 1772
Why it's great
At the front of the great French Encyclopédie, Truth is unveiled by Reason and Philosophy, with the light of knowledge shining. The Encyclopédie, edited by Diderot, gathered all the Enlightenment's knowledge, and this engraving by Charles-Nicolas Cochin was its frontispiece in 1772.
🏛️ Part of history
The Scientific Revolution & Enlightenment (1600–1789) — At the front of the great French Encyclopédie, Truth is unveiled by Reason and Philosophy, with the light of knowledge shining.
Where to see it
📍 Location not recordedWe couldn't confirm where it hangs today. Museums sometimes move or lend paintings, so check the museum's website before you travel.
Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
Charles-Nicolas Cochin was a French engraver and draftsman born in Paris in 1715. He was an official artist for Louis XV and the keeper of drawings at the Louvre, and he drew the frontispiece of the Encyclopédie. He died in Paris in 1790.
