D'Estrée à son amant prodiguait ses appas... 1825

This black and white print was made by Horace Vernet, an artist who worked during a time of significant social and political change in France. Here, we see a man and a woman embracing intimately beneath a tree. The image depicts Gabrielle d'Estrées, a mistress of King Henry IV of France. Vernet captures a narrative of love and power dynamics, offering a glimpse into the relationships between women and powerful men of the time. The print invites us to consider the historical roles of women in positions of influence, and how they navigated the complexities of love, loyalty, and power. The artist seems to be asking: in what ways do such intimate relationships shape the course of history and culture? As you view this image, consider the stories that are told and those that remain untold.