Titelblad voor prentserie 'Divers paisages' / 'Verschillende landschappen' 1630 - 1660

François Collignon created this title page for a print series, "Various Landscapes," using etching techniques. This piece reflects the social conventions of 17th-century France, where art served not only aesthetic purposes but also as a means of social networking and patronage. The title page is adorned with decorative elements such as stylized foliage and a heraldic crest, indicating that the series was likely dedicated to a noble or aristocratic patron – in this case, Monseigneur Louis de Crevant, Marquis of Humières. The inscription “Avec privilege du Roy” suggests that the artist or publisher had obtained royal approval for the distribution of the prints. This was a common practice that provided legal protection and signified a certain level of prestige and endorsement from the monarchy. Understanding the social and institutional context of this title page requires delving into archival records and historical texts, revealing insights into the patronage networks, artistic practices, and regulatory frameworks that shaped the production and dissemination of art in early modern Europe.