Portret van een gekroonde keizer Jozef I op een medaille 1665 - 1733

Editor: This is a print, "Portret van een gekroonde keizer Jozef I op een medaille," made between 1665 and 1733 by Simon Thomassin. It’s a portrait of a crowned Emperor Joseph I on a medallion. I'm struck by the circular composition; it feels very contained and formal. What stands out to you? Curator: Initially, one is compelled to consider the meticulously rendered circular format, constrained within which is a study in textural contrast. Note the smooth expanse of the face set against the ornate, almost frenetic, detail of the crown and ceremonial robe. Editor: The contrast is so interesting. Can you expand more about that choice of smooth vs ornate and textural detail? Curator: The tension between smoothness and high detail may exemplify a thematic of royal personage—that is, presenting a figure both serene and powerful. Notice also, the linear quality of the surrounding Latin inscription which not only confines the portrait but emphasizes its inherent flatness and illustrative quality. Do you agree with that as you look more closely at the image? Editor: I hadn't noticed how the text contributes to that flatness, I do now. It seems like a conscious decision to play with dimensionality within the piece. Curator: Precisely. This print uses the visual vocabulary available to it in an intelligent dialogue to emphasize the tensions inherent in representation and rulership. Its graphic strengths lie in a keen appreciation for contrasts within its formal constraints. Editor: This really changed how I see the print; thank you for providing this deeper perspective on the print's form. Curator: Indeed; the beauty of formalism lies in revealing these intended and unintended relationships that make each piece unique.