Portrait Bust of M. de Neuville c. 1780

Jean-Jacques Caffieri completed this marble bust of M. de Neuville during the 18th century, a period defined by its rigid social hierarchies. This portrait encapsulates the visual language of power and status. De Neuville’s garments and powdered wig speak to his aristocratic identity, while Caffieri’s skillful carving of marble creates an aura of timelessness. But this is not simply a depiction of wealth; it also reflects the cultural values of the time. Portraits like these served as symbols of familial legacy, reinforcing the subject’s position within society. Consider how the cool, smooth marble invites a sense of detachment. The expression is calm and collected, embodying the stoicism expected of men in positions of authority. Caffieri's bust immortalizes the sitter, yet it also reflects broader questions about representation, identity, and the perpetuation of social power.