Rigaud, Hyacinthe c. 17th century

Editor: This is Gérard Edelinck's print of Hyacinthe Rigaud. The sharp contrast between light and shadow gives the piece a dramatic flair. I wonder, what’s the story behind commissioning a portrait like this? Curator: The portrait served to solidify Rigaud's status within artistic circles and broader society. Edelinck, a renowned engraver, amplified Rigaud’s image through skillful reproduction and distribution. This wasn't just about art; it was about networking and constructing a public persona. Editor: So, it’s about the politics of image-making? Curator: Precisely. The choice of Edelinck, the composition, even the inscriptions, all contributed to constructing Rigaud as a leading figure. It highlights how artistic success was often intertwined with strategic self-representation and institutional endorsement. Editor: That’s a fascinating insight into the social life of art. Curator: Indeed, it prompts us to think critically about how artists navigated the socio-political landscapes of their time.