Portret van Frans III, hertog van Bretagne 1576 - 1614

This is a portrait of Frans III, Duke of Brittany, created around 1600 by Thomas de Leu, using engraving. The composition centers on the profile of Frans III, framed within an oval. The stark contrast of light and shadow enhances the contours of his face and attire, creating a striking visual presence. De Leu's expert use of line and texture constructs a complex semiotic system. The lines define form, while varied textures suggest the richness of fabric and the soft plumage of the hat. Note the sharp detail of the ruffled collar, juxtaposed with the smooth planes of the face. This contrast highlights the sitter’s aristocratic status, while also hinting at the transience of life through delicate, almost ephemeral lines. The inscription encircling the portrait adds another layer to the work, framing the image within linguistic and cultural codes. These elements function aesthetically, but also situate the portrait within a broader discourse of power, representation, and memory.