Catherine de Medici, Queen of France 

This engraving of Catherine de Medici, Queen of France, was made by Thomas de Leu around the late 16th or early 17th century. It’s a small work, yet it has a striking presence due to the artist’s mastery of line and form. The composition is dominated by the oval frame that encloses the Queen's portrait, which lends a sense of formality and containment. De Leu uses hatching and cross-hatching to create a range of tonal values, giving depth and volume to Catherine's face and attire. Look closely at the ruff around her neck; the intricate folds are rendered with remarkable precision. The text encircling the portrait and at the bottom isn’t merely decorative; it functions as a semiotic device, reinforcing her identity and status. The artist uses visual elements to communicate power and authority. The precision of the engraving reflects the order and structure of the court itself. Consider how this small print, through its careful construction and attention to detail, embodies the complex interplay of power, representation, and identity. It invites us to decode the visual language of the time and appreciate the enduring impact of formal choices.