Portrait of an ecclesiastic 1765

This circular terracotta relief, "Portrait of an ecclesiastic," was crafted by Jean-Baptiste Nini. Notice how the relief's circular form, contained within a wooden frame, establishes a sense of enclosure, focusing our attention on the profile of the clergyman. The artist's mastery is evident in the texture and modelling of the face, which adds to the overall effect of restrained power. Nini skillfully captures the social standing of the man through carefully rendered details, such as the elaborate wig and ecclesiastical dress. The circular format itself is not merely decorative but a symbolic echo of coins or medallions, which can evoke notions of authority and permanence. This format directs our gaze towards the subject's controlled expression and rigid posture, which indicates a deliberate effort to convey dignity and composure. Ultimately, the artwork is a complex interplay of form and societal codes, where the artist's formal choices amplify the subject's intended message of authority and influence.