Portret van Pierre Surirey de Saint Rémy 1697

Editor: This is Gérard Edelinck's "Portrait of Pierre Surirey de Saint Rémy" from 1697, an engraving on paper. It strikes me as quite formal and very much a product of its time. How would you interpret this work? Curator: This engraving speaks volumes about the societal structures and the power dynamics of the late 17th century. It's not just a portrait, but a carefully constructed representation of status and authority. Consider the role of the printing press; how did these portraits democratize images while still upholding social hierarchies? Editor: So, was the creation of this print politically charged? Curator: Absolutely. The act of commissioning and distributing such a portrait was a conscious assertion of power. Engravings allowed for wider circulation, which suggests a desire to project the image of Pierre Surirey de Saint Rémy—a Lieutenant of the Artillery of France—to a broader audience, potentially solidifying his influence and reminding others of his position within the French military and aristocracy. Note how the artist depicted the coat of arms under the oval, or even the hair. What do they represent in the society of the era? Editor: I see it as emphasizing family prestige, but also displaying his expensive wig as a symbol of belonging to the upper class. So the image is trying to make a specific statement to the contemporary public? Curator: Precisely. The museum context is key as well, framing how it is viewed today. Who had access to see it? What meaning would that imply? Editor: That gives me a new perspective, thanks! Curator: Indeed. Thinking about its cultural context really enriches our understanding.