Siméon Joseph Barbot de Lardeinne 17th-18th century

Curator: This is Pieter van Schuppen's portrait of Siméon Joseph Barbot de Lardeinne, now housed in the Harvard Art Museums collection. What strikes you first? Editor: The sheer density of texture! The wig, the lace, even the engraved lines themselves create a palpable density. Curator: Absolutely. This image speaks volumes about status in the French court; the wig alone was a potent symbol of power and belonging. Editor: And consider the labor involved in producing this print. The meticulous engraving, the paper quality—luxury at every stage. Curator: It’s a powerful visual statement of Barbot’s position as a counselor to the King, carefully curated for public consumption. Editor: It really prompts questions about how images like these shaped perceptions of authority and social hierarchy. Curator: Indeed, a fascinating artifact of its time. Editor: I agree, there is so much to explore.