Portret van tsaar Peter I de Grote 1770

Editor: This is a print titled "Portret van tsaar Peter I de Grote," or "Portrait of Tsar Peter I the Great," created around 1770 by Augustin de Saint-Aubin. It’s an engraving and strikes me as very formal, with Peter depicted in armor. How would you interpret this work, focusing on its formal qualities? Curator: From a formalist perspective, this portrait presents an intriguing interplay of lines, shapes, and textures. Consider the oval frame, echoed in the curve of the laurel wreath and the implied curve of Peter's posture. Notice also the contrasting textures: the smooth polish of the armor versus the detail etched into the face. How do these elements guide your eye? Editor: I see it. The oval draws my focus to his face, and the textural contrast makes his face the focal point. What about the inclusion of the horn? Does that signify anything formally? Curator: The inclusion of the horn above is very interesting. Semiotically, you may associate it with power or perhaps announcing the Tsars arrival, but structurally, it adds a diagonal element that opposes the horizontal base. Consider its relationship to the overall composition: it interrupts the symmetry, creating a dynamic tension within the static form of a portrait. Editor: That’s fascinating, I hadn't thought of the horn's impact on the symmetry. Curator: Exactly. Saint-Aubin has also used linear precision in the details to great effect. Do you see any particular aspects where line dominates form? Editor: The inscription at the bottom - PIERRE LE GRAND - and within the portrait around his face, there's a clear contrast to draw focus on the Tsar. Curator: Yes! Through careful modulation of light and shadow achieved with lines, Saint-Aubin elevates the subject. By doing that it underscores Peter's status as the absolute ruler of Russia. The materiality is also really critical to consider here. The fineness of line possible with an engraving elevates this image formally. What a rich image. Editor: Indeed. I see how a close formal reading reveals so much about not just the aesthetics but the intended meaning of the piece. Thank you.