AUDRAN, Benoit, the second son of Germain Audran, was born at Lyons in 1661, where he learned the first principles of design and engraving under the instruction of his father. But soon after going to Paris, his uncle Girard Audran took him under his tuition; and Benoit so greatly profited by his instructions, that though he never equalled the sublime style of his tutor, yet he deservedly acquired great reputation. He was honoured with the appellation of the king's engraver, and received the royal pension in 1715. He was made an academician, and admitted into the council. He died unmarried at Louzouer, where he had an estate, in 1721. His manner was founded upon the bold clear style of his uncle. His
outlines were firm and determined, his drawing correct, the heads of his figures in general very expressive, and the other extremities well marked.