Roger de Rabutin c. 17th century

Curator: This engraving depicts Roger de Rabutin, and was created by Gérard Edelinck, a French artist born in 1640. It's held in the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: My first impression is that the image has a strange combination of softness and strength. The curls are elaborate but the armor and coat of arms imply power. Curator: Edelinck worked during a time when powerful images were politically charged. Notice Rabutin's title as inscribed below, along with his age at death, situates him specifically. Editor: So, the armor and his proud bearing were meant to convey not just personal status, but also reinforce the authority of the French regime? Curator: Precisely. Edelinck wasn't just creating a likeness, he was contributing to a visual language that upheld the social hierarchy of the time. Editor: It's fascinating how portraiture can reflect and perpetuate those power dynamics. This makes me think about the role of the artist in either reinforcing or challenging those structures. Curator: Indeed. It's a window into the past, but also a mirror reflecting the ongoing dialogue surrounding power and representation.