César-Phoebus d'Albret, Maréchal de France 1670

Editor: Here we have Antoine Masson's engraving of César-Phoebus d'Albret. The sheer detail in that wig is astounding. What can you tell me about this portrait? Curator: Well, it is like peering into a very particular moment in French history, isn't it? The engraving captures the grandeur of the aristocracy. Notice how Masson uses line and texture to convey both power and vulnerability. It's a dance, really. What feelings does it evoke in you? Editor: I feel like the engraver is trying to capture an honest image. Curator: Perhaps, or perhaps he is just very aware of the conventions of portraiture at the time. It's a fascinating tension, isn't it? I'm still pondering the wig myself. Editor: Right, something to consider! Thanks for sharing your insight. Curator: My pleasure! It's been fun chatting.