Hyacinthe Rigaud 1726

Curator: Up next is a portrait of Hyacinthe Rigaud, engraved by Pierre Drevet. What do you make of it? Editor: Brooding, isn't it? All that heavy drapery and the architectural backdrop—it feels almost theatrical. Curator: I see what you mean. Drevet's skill is remarkable here, the way he captures light reflecting off Rigaud's satin robe, the texture of the turban. Editor: It's a very formal rendering, yet Rigaud's gaze gives it a certain intimacy. The engraving makes you wonder what the story is behind his eyes. Curator: Indeed. And with the Latin inscription it alludes to Rigaud giving the painting to a friend. Editor: So, in the end, a tribute to artistry and friendship. I like that. Curator: Exactly. It softens the formality for me, makes it personal.