Portret van een onbekend kind in architecturale omlijsting met medaillons 1600 - 1667

This engraving by Michel Lasne, made in France in the first half of the 17th century, presents the portrait of an unknown child within an elaborate architectural frame. But this image is more than just a depiction of a wealthy child. It’s a carefully constructed statement about power, lineage, and global ambition. The architectural setting, adorned with medallions representing continents, reveals the worldview of the European elite. The Latin inscriptions that accompany each allegorical figure assert Europe’s dominion over other lands. The child, likely from a noble family, is presented as a future ruler, destined to inherit and expand this global influence. This print offers a glimpse into the social and political landscape of 17th-century Europe, where art served to reinforce existing power structures. To fully understand this artwork, we can consult historical texts, genealogical records, and studies of French court culture. Through such research, we can uncover the identities and the social forces that shaped its creation.