Medicis, François de, grand duke de Toscane c. 17th century

Curator: This is Gérard Edelinck's portrait of François de Medicis, Grand Duke of Tuscany. Editor: Immediately, the contrasts in texture strike me—the stiff formality of his attire against the soft fur and drapery. Curator: Indeed, Edelinck masterfully uses light and shadow to articulate the duke's status, with the stark lines of his doublet emphasizing his power. Editor: It also reinforces the importance of dynastic succession and influence in the 17th century. One wonders about the circumstances of this commission. Curator: The portrait offers us an image of power, meticulously designed for its intended audience within the grand scheme of Medician self-representation. Editor: Ultimately, I find the restrained composition and attention to texture quite compelling, a testament to Edelinck’s skillful deployment of form and materiality.