Portret van Jean d'Orléans, graaf van Dunois en Mortain 1839 - 1848

Alexandrine André made this print of Jean d'Orléans, Count of Dunois and Mortain. This image takes us back to 19th-century France, where historical figures like Jean d'Orléans were often resurrected as symbols of national identity. The print revives a hero from the past during a period of intense social and political change, especially after the French Revolution. It reflects the era's interest in medieval history and the construction of a cohesive French narrative. André’s print uses visual language to evoke the past. The depiction of Jean d'Orléans in full armor is not just a historical costume but a visual cue that signifies bravery and nobility. Such imagery would have resonated with the 19th-century French audience, reminding them of a time when France was seen as a dominant power in Europe. The print also coincides with the rise of museums and historical societies. To fully grasp the meaning here, we must delve into the history books and institutional records of 19th-century France. We begin to see how art like this wasn't just about aesthetic pleasure but also a reflection of the cultural and political forces at play.