Jean Poyer

The work of his early period (in the 1480s) reveals Poyer's mastery of perspective,[1] refined use of light and color, and realistic human depictions, with influences of the Renaissance, a discernible break from the Late Gothic style which often included unrealistic figures in dollhouse like compartments.

Poyer traveled to northern Italy and became motivated by the works of artists such as Andrea Mantegna and Giovanni Bellini, as well as being influenced by the presence in Tours of Jean Fouquet who introduced Italian styling to the area.

His work, however, was ever-changing, and many of the larger manuscripts retained aspects of his earlier, more monumental manner, apparent in the Hours of Henry VIII and the Lallemant Missal.

To make such distinctions more difficult, some illuminations were entirely by his assistants, while in other, Poyer would paint a portion of a miniature and then his helpers would complete the work.

The Master of Jacques de Besançon worked for some of the same clients (such as King Charles VIII), but his broad style lacked Poyer's subtlety.

A more direct competitor, Jean Bourdichon also lived and worked in Tours, using a similar style and in the same time period, and often for the same clientele as Poyer.

[3] When Poyer died, his workshop collapsed and his (some would say less talented) rival in Tours, Jean Bourdichon, expanded his influence by increasing the production of his many assistants.

Some shop members, as well as other painters who refused to join Bourdichon's factory, moved to Paris, and continued to illuminate in "pseudo-Poyer" style, however, not with the same level of talent as Poyer.

[2] The influence of Poyer's subtle style was not extensive, and only one painter, the Master of Claude de France, should be considered his true artistic heir.

[4] The Prayer Book of Anne de Bretagne was included in the exhibit "Medieval Monsters: Terrors, Aliens, Wonders" at The Morgan Library & Museum, June 8 through Sept. 23, 2018, where it was turned to the page featuring St. Margaret the Virgin and the dragon.