Apprenticed as a jeweller in Paris, Paul Prieur turned to the art of enamel painting, practicing at the Spanish, English and Danish courts. He was painter in enamel to the court in Copenhagen from 1660-81, and travelled to London in 1682 and 1683. His work is characterised by a pronounced stippling, which is particularly evident in the background and in the hair of the sitter in this enamel. The sitter is confirmed as Basile Fouquet by reference to an engraving by Robert Nanteuil of the same date as this enamel. Basil Fouquet, the son of Nicolas Fouquet, marquis de Belle Isle and Marie de Meaupeon, was the ruling Abbot of Barbeaux and Novaille, Councillor of State and, from 1656 to 1659, Chancellor of the King's Orders. He was exiled in 1661 following the disgrace of his brother, Nicolas, Comptroller-General of Finance. Signed and dated on the reverse; 'Prieur Fecit 1658'.