Alexandre de Sève 1662

Curator: This is Robert Nanteuil’s portrait of Alexandre de Sève. There's no date associated with it, but we know Nanteuil was active in the 17th century. Editor: There's something about the quality of line that makes this feel very immediate and precise, almost clinical in its detail. Curator: The image resonates with symbols of power and status. The inscription surrounding the portrait and the heraldic crest speak volumes about de Sève’s position. Editor: Look at the ways the marks are layered to create tonal variation and texture; it points to a highly skilled artisan intimately familiar with his tools. Curator: Indeed. In capturing de Sève, Nanteuil has also given us a glimpse into the symbolic language of the era. Editor: It leaves you thinking about the labor involved in making images like this and the skill that goes into the printmaking process.