Chancelier Pierre Séguier, Duc de Villemor et de Saint-Liébaut, Comte de Gien, etc. 1657

Editor: This is Robert Nanteuil’s portrait of Chancelier Pierre Séguier. It feels very formal, almost intimidating. How would you interpret this work, especially given the sitter's high-ranking position? Curator: It’s a dance between power and presentation, isn't it? Nanteuil captures Séguier's authority, but I wonder if it hints at something deeper. Do you sense any vulnerability behind that carefully constructed image? Perhaps the weight of responsibility? Editor: I didn't before, but I see that now! It's subtle, but there's a hint of weariness in his eyes. Curator: Exactly! Art often whispers secrets about the human condition, doesn't it?