Charles-Juste, Prince de Beauvau 1770

This terracotta medallion of Charles-Juste, Prince de Beauvau, was created by Jean-Baptiste Nini in 1770. The circular form, about four inches in diameter, presents a profile portrait set against a flat background. Note how the artist plays with depth and relief. Nini has masterfully captured the likeness of Prince de Beauvau, emphasizing his aristocratic features, and his powdered wig. The inscription that runs along the edge of the medallion mirrors the contour of the Prince's profile. Semiotically, the circular shape conveys ideas of completeness and continuity, while the relief gives depth and tactility to the image. Consider how the artist has used the texture of the terracotta. The smooth, matte surface contrasts with the intricate details of the hair and clothing. This interplay is not merely decorative; it engages with the viewer’s perception, inviting us to consider how surface and form create meaning. Through the medallion's structure, we gain insights into the subject and the artistic conventions of its time.