Ludovicus dux Aurelianensis (Orleans) c. 18th century

Curator: This is Pierre Drevet’s portrait of Ludovicus dux Aurelianensis, residing here at Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first impression is one of rigid formality—the subject’s armor, the inscription, even the tight oval frame create a sense of controlled power. Curator: Armor isn't just about protection; it's a potent symbol, embodying strength, authority, and the enduring legacy of leadership. His gaze is quite steady, isn't it? Editor: Indeed. The etching technique, though, is fascinating. Look at how Drevet renders texture—the metallic sheen of the armor versus the softness of his hair. The labor involved in creating such detail is significant. Curator: The fleur-de-lis on the base is a signifier of French royalty. These symbols carried significant weight—they were visual cues to lineage and divine right. Editor: And those symbols reinforced a particular social order, one where access to materials like armor and the skills of artisans like Drevet were highly controlled. It reveals much about the era’s production of status. Curator: A great point; a dialogue between power, representation, and the tangible work involved in their making. Editor: Precisely. It's a delicate balance between the sitter's presence and the materials used to depict him.