Portret van Claude-Louis, graaf van Berthollet 1822 - 1827

Editor: So, this is Jean Pierre Sudre's portrait of Claude-Louis, Count of Berthollet, dating back to between 1822 and 1827. It's an engraving on paper. He looks rather stern, doesn't he? A real pillar of the establishment. What strikes you most about it? Curator: It's the light, isn't it? See how it catches the powdered wig, almost like a halo. But instead of piety, it speaks to scientific enlightenment, almost… well, not quite godlike, but certainly elevating him above the everyday. And it contrasts nicely with that quite…severe gaze. What do you make of that tiny little pin on his jacket? Editor: I noticed that! It's a detail that hints at his achievements, maybe? Is it common to highlight scientific figures like this during this era? Curator: Absolutely! This is peak Neoclassicism; think order, reason, the glory of the mind! Remember, the late 18th and early 19th centuries were mad for science, right? It’s not just capturing a likeness but lionizing him! Making him part of…of a new kind of aristocracy – not birthright, but brains! Does that ring true, d’you think? Editor: I see that, it connects with all those marble busts of thinkers from antiquity. So, even in a print, they are promoting science itself. Fascinating. It almost humanizes the field and makes it worthy of honor and respect, right? Curator: Bang on! He becomes an emblem of progress, just like a Greek philosopher, but brought dazzlingly up to date. Food for thought indeed! It’s also nice how we are able to zoom into this artwork and appreciate it, as if it was really there with us. Editor: I never considered all of that. This piece definitely deserves more than just a passing glance. Thanks!