Portret van Vincenzo Malacarne 1818 - 1832

Charles Aimé Forestier created this portrait of Vincenzo Malacarne using an unspecified method. Forestier’s lifetime spanned from the late 18th to the mid-19th century, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval following the French Revolution. Portraits like this often served to memorialize individuals of stature, reinforcing social hierarchies and projecting an image of authority. But what happens when we consider who gets remembered, and who is left out of these historical records? The formal attire and stern countenance of Malacarne speak to the values of the era, where outward appearances often mirrored one’s social standing and moral character. Yet, the absence of details about Malacarne’s life invites us to reflect on the stories that remain untold. These portraits provide glimpses into the past while also prompting us to question the power dynamics inherent in representation, memory, and history.