Portret van Jean de Gassion 1647 - 1676

This engraving, by Jean Frosne, portrays Jean de Gassion and was likely made in France in the mid-17th century. In it, we can see how visual codes were used to convey status and power during this era. Consider the armor, an explicit signifier of military prowess and aristocratic identity in 17th century France, alongside Gassion's elaborate wig. The wig was a relatively new fashion statement among French aristocracy and those seeking upward mobility, who imitated the style of Louis XIII. The text surrounding the portrait reinforces the image. We can research Gassion to discover that he was a prominent military figure and Marshal of France. A historian might also investigate the status of military figures within French society at the time, and consider the role of portraiture in constructing and broadcasting one's public image. Understanding the social conditions and institutional structures of the time helps us decode the messages embedded within this portrait.