Koning Antoine de Bourbon toont zijn pasgeboren zoon Henry IV 1832 - 1890

Edmond Ramus made this print, Koning Antoine de Bourbon toont zijn pasgeboren zoon Henry IV, with etching. It captures a ceremonial moment, the presentation of a newborn heir to a select group of courtiers. Made in the 19th century, but depicting a scene from 16th-century France, the print reflects a revival of interest in national history. The image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. The emphasis on lineage and the formal presentation of the child speak to the importance of dynastic succession in French society. The setting, an opulent royal chamber, reinforces the family's status and power. Prints like this were often commissioned by institutions that wanted to influence public perceptions of the past. Historical accounts, royal archives, and genealogical records would have informed its production. By examining those sources, we can better understand the print's role in shaping ideas about French identity.