Portret van Dagobert I 1647 - 1678

Editor: So, here we have "Portret van Dagobert I," a Baroque engraving from somewhere between 1647 and 1678, by Nicolas de Larmessin I. The subject looks… intense. He's got a stern expression and full armor, ready to take on whatever comes. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Intense is definitely a word for it! I see more than just intensity, though. Look at the detail Larmessin achieved with the engraving. It’s almost photographic in its detail. Now, consider the date; printmaking was really developing, wasn't it? It’s not just a portrait but a statement of power. Who was Dagobert, anyway? Does he look like a benevolent ruler to you? Editor: Dagobert was a Merovingian king, I think. And no, benevolent isn't the first word that springs to mind. He looks pretty formidable. Maybe even… a little scary? I imagine he'd prefer ruling by authority than with affection. Is that maybe the point of the portrait, to project strength and maintain power? Curator: Exactly! That image of authority was absolutely key back then, especially given how portraits circulated. But doesn’t it also hint at the ephemeral nature of power? This imposing figure is captured in a fragile print. And do we remember Dagobert now because of his benevolent rule… or this enduring image? Perhaps it is power which endures rather than the ruler! Editor: Wow, I hadn't thought of it that way. A single image, more enduring than any real authority, shaping opinions centuries later... fascinating. I learned a lot from our discussion. Curator: As did I. It is good to pause, now and again, and appreciate the nuances that were captured by the portrait in that era! A real sign of the times, so to speak.