Guillaume de Lamoignon, marquis de Basville 1663

Curator: This is Robert Nanteuil's portrait of Guillaume de Lamoignon, marquis de Basville, a striking engraving now residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The textures are incredibly detailed—look at the fur trim and the delicate lines defining his face. I'm immediately struck by its almost photographic realism. Curator: Nanteuil was the foremost portrait engraver in France. He captured not just likeness but also the sitter's social standing within Louis XIV's court. This piece reflects the increasing importance of the French Aristocracy during his reign. Editor: Notice how the oval frame and the inscription contribute to a sense of formality, almost like a coin or medal commemorating his status. Curator: Exactly! It's a carefully constructed image, designed to project authority and refinement. It is not just art, but propaganda! Editor: I'm also drawn to the subtle use of light and shadow that gives such volume to Lamoignon's face. It shows such mastery of technique. Curator: It is amazing to witness how one of France's finest engravers memorialized a key figure of his time. Editor: Indeed, a testament to both the skill of the artist and the power of the portrayed.