La Noblesse Française à l’église (De Franse adel in de kerk) c. 1628 - 1629

Abraham Bosse created this etching, "French Nobility at Church," sometime in the mid-17th century. It provides a glimpse into the social rituals and class distinctions of the era. The setting, presumably a church, becomes a stage for displaying status. The nobleman's attire, his nonchalant posture, and the presence of an attendant all signal wealth and privilege. Bosse was deeply engaged in the social and political issues of his time. His work often satirized the aristocracy, and here we might detect a subtle critique of their performative piety. The etching itself embodies institutional history; prints like these were crucial for disseminating ideas and social commentary in an age before mass media. To fully understand this image, we can consult period texts on fashion, manners, and religious practices. By situating Bosse's print within its cultural and institutional context, we gain valuable insights into the social dynamics of 17th-century France.