Portret van Pierre de Bar 1660

Etienne Picart created this portrait of Pierre de Bar using engraving techniques. Born in the 17th century, Picart lived through a time of religious and political upheaval in Europe, with the Catholic Church playing a dominant role in society. Here, Pierre de Bar, a Cardinal and Bishop, is formally presented, encased within an oval frame. The engraving captures a somber dignity. His gaze is direct, suggesting a man of power and conviction, yet there's also a hint of vulnerability in the lines around his eyes. Portraits such as this one were tools, reinforcing status and authority. The visual language employed in this work is one of hierarchy and control, reflecting the pervasive influence of the church. Yet, when we consider Pierre's identity, we must also reflect on the unseen. We can question how the artist and sitter may have perceived and negotiated their places in the cultural and religious landscape of their time.