Francois de Vendome, duc de Beaufort, grand admiral de France c. 17th century

Curator: Oh, he looks rather imposing, doesn't he? A man of stature and perhaps, dare I say, a little bit… smug? Editor: This is Jacques Grignon's portrait of François de Vendôme, the Duke of Beaufort, a grand admiral of France. It presents him within a theatrical oval frame. Look at all the maritime imagery. Curator: The frame is as captivating as the subject! It's almost like a stage, and he's giving us his most dramatic performance. It begs the question, who was he trying to impress? Editor: Well, Beaufort was a significant figure in French naval history, so this portrait would have served to promote his image, valor, and the power of the French navy itself. The naval trophies and emblems are there to signal his authority and accomplishments. Curator: Even though it's an idealized image, I see the human. The curls are luscious, but the eyes hint at something else entirely. Maybe a touch of melancholy. Do you agree? Editor: Perhaps. These portraits are always so carefully constructed to project an image, but the most lasting ones allow something of the person to peek through. Curator: Yes, and it's in that peek that we find the real conversation. Editor: Indeed, and perhaps that's the most valuable thing we can ask from these images.