Portret van Armand Jean du Plessis

François Ragot made this print of Armand Jean du Plessis, or Cardinal Richelieu, sometime between 1638 and 1670. As a print, it could be widely distributed, serving as a kind of political propaganda. Made in France during the 17th century, this image of Richelieu offers insight into the intertwining of religious and state power. Richelieu was not only a high-ranking cleric but also a powerful statesman, serving as the chief minister to King Louis XIII. His attire – the cardinal's hat and the elaborate cross – signifies his ecclesiastical authority, while his stern gaze and formal pose convey his political gravitas. This image reinforces Richelieu's carefully constructed persona as a man of God and a shrewd politician, crucial for maintaining his influence. To fully understand this print, we need to consider the religious and political history of 17th-century France, researching how powerful institutions shaped perceptions of leaders like Richelieu.