Armand Jean du Plessis, Cardinal Richelieu 

Michel Lasne created this engraving of Armand Jean du Plessis, Cardinal Richelieu. Dominating the composition is the figure of Richelieu enthroned; this is no mere portrait, but an assertion of power and authority. The symbols, like the throne itself, evoke images of Roman emperors and divine rulers, designed to instill a sense of awe and obedience. Consider the gesture of Richelieu's hand. One hand rests on what looks like a scroll, a symbol of knowledge and control. This motif echoes across centuries, from the scepter-holding statues of antiquity to Renaissance depictions of monarchs holding documents. The weight of tradition is palpable, reminding us that power is not just held but inherited, shaped by history. The image has a psychological dimension. Richelieu’s gaze is direct, almost confrontational, a technique used to project strength. This is more than just an image; it is a carefully constructed persona intended to engage the viewer on a deep, subconscious level, invoking a powerful, emotional response. The symbols in this print reveal the cyclical nature of power. The throne, the scroll, the gaze—they all carry echoes of the past, resurfacing in new forms, reminding us that history is always present.