Portret van André Hameau 1666 - 1707

Gérard Edelinck created this print of André Hameau in the late 17th century. It presents a set of cultural codes about status and authority. André Hameau is dressed in the robes of a pastor and Doctor of the Sorbonne, a prominent theologian. The Latin inscription describes him as the first pastor of Saint Paul's Church and a member of the supreme Gallic senate. This image reflects the hierarchical structure of 17th-century France, a society deeply influenced by the Catholic Church and academic institutions like the Sorbonne. Edelinck's work, made for distribution, served to uphold and reinforce the social standing of figures like Hameau. The coat of arms adds another layer of meaning, suggesting family lineage and noble connections, consolidating a narrative of power and influence. Understanding this print requires a look into the historical context, including the role of the church, the academic system, and the structure of French society. Archives, biographies, and historical studies of the period are helpful to discover the political functions of art.