Portret van abt Claude Francoise de la Viefville op 56-jarige leeftijd 1684

Richard Collin created this portrait of Abbot Claude Francoise de la Viefville at the age of 56. Note the oval frame, a classical device, within which the Abbot appears, a format designed to focus the eye on the subject's face and upper body. Collin uses the graphic possibilities of engraving to construct not just an image, but a statement about status and identity. The formal qualities of line and texture work together to create a sense of depth and character. The Abbot's gaze is direct, almost confrontational, engaging the viewer in a silent dialogue. The lines are delicate yet firm, suggesting both the fragility and the strength inherent in the human condition. Consider the semiotic weight of the Abbot's attire. The subtle cross and the ecclesiastical robes speak to the Abbot's position, a visual shorthand easily read by the contemporary viewer. Ultimately, Collin’s formal decisions elevate this portrait beyond mere representation, transforming it into a study of power and perception.