Léon-Bouthillier, Comte de Chavigny 1646 - 1656

This is Robert Nanteuil's portrait of Léon Bouthillier, Comte de Chavigny, made using engraving. Nanteuil was a leading portraitist in 17th century France, a time when the visual representation of status and power was paramount. Consider Chavigny's gaze, his elaborate wig, and the fine clothing, all designed to project an image of authority and refinement. But portraiture, especially during this period, was more than just a record; it was a construction. Chavigny’s identity is carefully crafted here, embodying the ideals of his class and era. Nanteuil’s skilled engraving captures not just a likeness, but an aspirational vision of aristocracy. What does it mean to have your image circulated in this way? How does it perform the work of power? This work invites us to consider the relationship between identity, representation, and social status in early modern Europe.