Portret van kardinaal André-Hercule de Fleury 1825 - 1842

This is Nicolas Maurin's lithograph of Cardinal André-Hercule de Fleury, a portrait capturing not just a man, but the weight of ecclesiastical power. The Cardinal’s attire speaks volumes; it signifies his high rank within the church, a symbol of authority in a society deeply shaped by religious doctrine. Consider the formal pose, echoed in countless portraits across centuries. The portrait as a symbol has roots extending back to ancient Roman busts and Egyptian effigies of pharaohs. These images transcend mere representation to embody the subject’s status, power, and legacy. The vestments, too, are laden with history. The evolution of clerical clothing is a fascinating study in power and symbolism. They began as simple garments, developing into elaborate costumes designed to inspire awe and reverence. Like the robes of kings or judges, they visually reinforce the wearer’s authority. We can feel the weight of this symbolism engaging our collective memory on a subconscious level. The symbols in this artwork, like the figure they depict, have gone through a cyclical journey through time, reappearing across cultures and evolving in meaning with each iteration.