Portret van Henri de Latour d'Auvergne 1628 - 1670

Curator: Here we have "Portret van Henri de Latour d'Auvergne," an intaglio engraving created sometime between 1628 and 1670, attributed to Pieter de Jode II. It’s quite a formal piece. Editor: Yes, very formal! The oval frame, the armour… my first thought is of the weight, literally, of the expectations on this man. What can you tell us about the labor involved in making it? Curator: As an engraving, the image was meticulously etched into a metal plate, probably copper, line by line. Consider the artist's hand and the tools needed for that level of detail, translating likeness into a series of precise marks. Then each print pulled is also another interaction with materials—paper, ink, and printing press, all products of extensive production processes. Editor: The symbolism is very clear; every aspect of the visual presentation evokes prestige and lineage. The crests, cherubic figures above the portrait, not to mention the Latin inscription... They create a sense of unbroken glory and perhaps an allusion to divinity, even. Curator: Definitely. The framing itself signals status, almost like a window into another world of aristocratic privilege. Note the careful rendering of the armour; even that served not only a functional purpose, but a visual signifier within society. Editor: I find myself drawn to the sword; just slightly out of view. Almost as if Henri is willing to go into battle. Also the Latin text makes sure the important people reading knew just what family this noble belonged to! All designed to inspire respect. Curator: The text serves almost as a means of social climbing as people of power at the time wanted the best looking materials produced about themselves and their lineage. I guess what I take away is the social structure required for this piece of art. From its materials, through labor, up to this elite portrayed. Editor: Exactly. This work is a time capsule, representing an elevated identity meant for broad dissemination, carrying historical and psychological power centuries later!