Portret van César Phoebus d'Albret, graaf van Miossens 1838 - 1841

Alexandre Massard created this portrait of César Phoebus d'Albret in print. D’Albret is depicted with armor and a baton, symbols of military power. Consider how the baton, a short staff, has historically signified authority. The baton's lineage can be traced back to ancient scepters, emblems of kings and gods. Over time, it morphed into a symbol of military command, reappearing throughout history. Even today, the baton's essence lingers in the ceremonial staffs of university maces, or field marshal batons, each carrying a resonance of leadership and control. The portrait presents a figure poised between power and vulnerability, engaging us on a subconscious level. These symbols are never truly new but rather resurface, evolving and accumulating new layers of meaning across generations.