François de Laval, 1708
Artist: Francois, Claude (1614-1685)
Engraver: Duflos, Claude (1665-1727)
Medium: engraving
Dimensions: 25.5 x 15.5cm (sheet)

François de Laval (1623-1708) is credited with establishing the Catholic Church in New France. In 1659, he arrived in Canada, and in 1674 became the first Catholic bishop of Canada. He established the Seminary of Quebec as a seat for the Jesuit order and a centre for religious training. He was a powerful force in civil matters and was noted for his selfless and conciliatory nature. He was buried under the cathedral at Quebec City.

This print was engraved in France to commemorate the death of Bishop Laval and is based on a painting attributed to Frère Luc, a Recollet friar who visited New France in 1670-1671.

National Archives of Canada, negative no. C-005183