Edouard Colbert, Marquis of Villacerf c. 17th century

Editor: This is Jean Louis Roullet's portrait of Edouard Colbert, Marquis of Villacerf. I'm immediately struck by the formality and the intense detail in the hair. What does this piece say to you? Curator: It whispers of power, doesn't it? The swirl of the wig, the draped fabric – it's all about constructing an image. But, look closely, what's behind that grand facade? Do you see a hint of weariness, a fleeting moment of doubt perhaps, in the Marquis's eyes? That contrast, that's where the real story lives, wouldn't you agree? Editor: I see it now! Thanks for pointing that out.