The Marshall of Turenne (Henry de la Tour d'Auvergne) c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Robert Nanteuil’s portrait of "The Marshall of Turenne". It’s a print, quite detailed, and it has such a formal and imposing feel. What can you tell me about its historical context? Curator: Nanteuil created this portrait to circulate an image of power. Consider the print's role in disseminating Turenne's image throughout 17th-century France. How might this portrait have functioned as a form of political propaganda? Editor: So, it's not just a likeness, but a carefully constructed message about authority? Curator: Precisely! Think about who would have commissioned, collected, and viewed such a print. What social circles were being addressed? Editor: That's fascinating. I never considered how a print could be such a powerful tool for shaping public perception. Curator: Exactly! It encourages us to think about the politics of image-making and its impact on historical figures' legacies.