Portret van Pierre (I) Simon in ovaal 1693

Antoine Trouvain created this oval portrait of Pierre Simon, a master of calligraphy, using engraving techniques. Trouvain was a French artist working during the reign of Louis XIV. In this era, France was undergoing significant cultural and political shifts. Simon’s identity as a calligrapher places him in a unique position within the social hierarchy of the time, where skilled craftsmanship was valued yet distinct from the aristocratic elite. The portrait not only captures Simon's likeness but also hints at his professional identity through the emphasis on detail and precision, qualities inherent in the art of calligraphy. Notice the intricate details of Simon's wig and the subtle textures Trouvain created with his engraving tools. Consider how portraits like these served to immortalize individuals, connecting them to the broader historical narrative. This image makes me think about the ways we choose to represent ourselves and others, then and now.