Portret van Laurent Cars 1746 - 1820

Simon Charles Miger created this portrait of Laurent Cars, an engraver to the King, using etching and burin techniques. Engravers in 18th century France held a vital position, reproducing paintings for wider audiences, and shaping public taste and opinion. Laurent Cars, depicted here, played a role in disseminating the dominant cultural and political narratives of his time through the prints he produced. The portrait presents Cars in a style befitting his status, yet there’s a certain softness in the rendering, particularly around the eyes, hinting at the individual behind the professional persona. It offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between artistic skill, social role, and personal identity in an era defined by rigid social hierarchies. The image reflects the societal values placed on artistry and craftsmanship, but also invites us to consider the more personal aspects of Cars' life beyond his public role.