Portret van Jean-Baptiste Perrée 1835 - 1851

Antoine Maurin produced this print of Jean-Baptiste Perrée, likely in France, during the first half of the 19th century. It shows us how the image of powerful individuals was carefully managed and disseminated in that era. Prints like this were crucial in shaping public perception, particularly in the wake of the French Revolution. This portrait of Perrée, a naval officer, serves as an example. The uniform, the stern gaze, and the overall composition project an image of authority, competence and patriotism. This wasn't just about capturing a likeness; it was about constructing a public persona, reinforcing the values and power structures of the time. To fully understand this image, we must turn to historical records and archives, exploring the social and political context that shaped its creation. It is in this way that we can appreciate how art actively participates in the construction of collective memory.