Portret van François Christophe Kellermann 1803

Pierre Charles Coqueret made this print of François Christophe Kellermann in France, probably during the late 18th or early 19th century. It reflects the visual codes and cultural values of its time. Kellermann is shown in his military uniform, complete with boots, sword, and hat. He is sitting on a rock, casually posed, hinting at his status and authority. In the background, there is a suggestion of a military tent. What is interesting is the normalization of war, and the aesthetics of military power. It suggests the social prestige of military service. To understand this print more fully, we could consult military records, fashion history, and studies of French society during this period. By looking at the social and institutional context, we can gain insights into the ways in which art reflects and shapes cultural values.