The Painter of Troyes and Toulouse The year 1581 marks the beginning of a life defined by the precision of the miniature. Born in Troyes, Jean Chalette begins his career in the shadow of the local traditions of his birthplace. He practices his art in the quietude of his home region, honing a technique suited for the intimate scale of portraiture. His early years are a period of quiet development, a gathering of skill that would soon demand a larger stage. A sudden shift occurs in 1581. The Hôtel-de-Ville in Toulouse issues a summons. They require his hand to decorate their halls. This summons…