Portret van Henri de Bourbon, hertog van Montpensier 1755 - 1765

This engraving, located at the Rijksmuseum, captures Henri de Bourbon, Duc de Montpensier. It was created by Monogrammist AL in the 16th century. The composition is formally divided into distinct sections, creating a visual hierarchy that emphasizes Bourbon's status and identity. The portrait is framed by an oval, which, in turn, sits above a rectangular pedestal bearing Bourbon's name. The oval shape softens the rigid lines of the pedestal, drawing the eye towards the Duke's face, meticulously rendered with fine, precise lines that capture his features and convey a sense of regal composure. The background within the oval is filled with dense hatching, creating a contrast that makes the Duke’s figure stand out. This contrast between the Duke and the background suggests a deeper engagement with semiotic conventions. The careful attention to detail and symbolic presentation reflect the values and codes of the time, inviting the viewer to decode the layers of meaning embedded within the artwork.