Raphaël Duflos dans le rôle d’Henri III 

Curator: Oh, this is fascinating! This watercolor is by Giovanni Boldini, and it portrays Raphaël Duflos in the role of Henri III. It has this ephemeral, almost dreamlike quality. What's your take on it? Editor: My first impression? It's theatrical. I immediately think of stagecraft and costume. But the watercolor gives it such a transient, fading feeling, like a memory of a play rather than the thing itself. Curator: That’s astute. I see a blend of power and fragility in it. Henri III, as a historical figure, was quite complex and often criticized, and the choice of watercolor emphasizes that fleeting nature of power. The dark blues of the cape really anchor the piece, though. Don't they speak to royalty in a profound way? Editor: Absolutely. Blue is eternally linked to the divine and noble—think of the Virgin Mary’s robes, for instance. That specific, almost cobalt hue is compelling. It's draped so heavily around him, too, almost like it’s a burden. Curator: The symbolism here is rich. Notice how the actor almost seems to be dissolving into the background? Boldini captures Duflos not just as Henri III, but almost the idea of Henri III, fading from collective memory. It reflects the historical interpretations and judgments of this monarch. Editor: That gesture he makes with his hand— barely suggested, just a few sketched lines—speaks volumes about the gestures of kingship. Is he blessing, dismissing, or simply adjusting his garment? All of those interpretations reflect historical criticism and speculation. The way Boldini leaves so much to suggestion really amplifies its emotional impact. Curator: I agree completely! And you know, watercolor can be such an unforgiving medium. You can’t really correct mistakes; each brushstroke has to be confident, deliberate. I'd say that Boldini captured an exquisite balance here between the concrete details and impressionistic suggestion, making it linger in our minds. Editor: Precisely, it leaves an enduring echo—more haunting, perhaps, than a more sharply defined portrait. Makes you consider how identities both real and fictional can be equally fragile under the relentless gaze of history. It stays with me! Curator: Absolutely. A beautiful, thoughtful rendering—a glimpse into a character within a character. And ultimately, a lovely dance of artistry and historical narrative.