Portret van César d'Estrées 1689

Nicolas de Larmessin created this portrait of César d'Estrées using etching around 1691 in France, a period defined by the reign of Louis XIV and the consolidation of royal power. César d'Estrées, a cardinal and member of the French aristocracy, embodies the intersection of religious authority and noble status. The portrait showcases the visual rhetoric of power and identity in 17th-century France. César's attire and accoutrements speak to his rank within both the church and the state. The gaze exudes authority, reflecting his high status in a society marked by strict hierarchies. Larmessin’s work, however, is not merely a record; it's an active participant in constructing and reinforcing the values of the time. This portrait prompts us to consider the legacy of power, representation, and the intricate dance between personal identity and societal expectations.