Portret van Louise Françoise de La Baume Le Blanc de la Vallière 1708 - 1711

This is an engraving of Louise Françoise de La Baume Le Blanc de la Vallière by Jacob Gole. The portrait presents us with symbols of both earthly status and spiritual devotion. Consider the laurel wreath framing her face, a classical motif signifying triumph and immortality, juxtaposed with the Carmelite order mentioned below, indicative of her later religious life. Note the emblem with the lion rampant; though a heraldic symbol of nobility, it also evokes a sense of untamed passion, contrasting with the serenity she presents. Observe how the lion, a symbol found in ancient Mesopotamian art, initially signified power and royalty, yet here it’s tempered by Christian humility. This is a recurring theme in art history, a negotiation between pagan vitality and Christian restraint. The symbols in this portrait, laden with historical and cultural weight, engage viewers in a deep, subconscious dialogue about human fate. They embody the psyche's inclination to reconcile conflicting emotions. The visual language conveys an understanding of how the human spirit seeks balance between worldly desires and spiritual aspirations.