Chancelier Michel IV Le Tellier 1657 - 1667

Robert Nanteuil created this engraving of Chancelier Michel IV Le Tellier in the mid-seventeenth century. At the time, France was under the rule of Louis XIV and experiencing significant cultural and political shifts. Nanteuil's work provides insight into the construction of identity and power within the French court. Le Tellier, as chancellor, was a figure of considerable authority. The portrait, with its elaborate framing and allegorical figures, is a careful performance of status. Note the Latin inscriptions which suggest a commitment to ‘utmost fidelity.’ This wasn’t just a picture; it was an assertion of loyalty and trustworthiness in a world of courtly intrigue. However, these representations often obscured complex realities. Le Tellier's legacy is tied to policies that affected religious minorities. This image asks us to consider the relationship between public image and historical accountability. How do portraits shape our understanding of individuals who wielded power, and what stories do they leave out?