Portret van Lodewijk IX de Heilige, koning van Frankrijk 1598

Curator: Here we have a print from 1598, “Portret van Lodewijk IX de Heilige, koning van Frankrijk,” or "Portrait of Louis IX the Saint, King of France," created by Jost Amman. Editor: Immediately, I’m drawn to the detail despite the small scale. It feels almost illuminated, like a page torn from a lavishly illustrated history book. It’s quite ornate for a simple portrait, isn't it? Curator: It is remarkably detailed, even more so when you consider that it’s an engraving. The layers of meaning are impressive. Look at the smaller scenes depicted below the king's portrait – almost like little windows into his life. Editor: I notice those are almost secondary to the overwhelming sense of royalty. We have Louis enthroned, a grand performance of power staged within this small frame. The print must've been part of broader efforts to shape Louis’ image. The way historical figures were and are branded feels crucial. Curator: I agree entirely. The "branding," as you say, went beyond mere representation. This print likely circulated among elites, reinforcing not only the power of Louis IX but also ideals of leadership and piety. He was canonized in 1297, so the "saint" addition must have held a lot of value. Editor: It makes me think about the visual language we use to legitimize power even today. Royal portraiture, religious iconography... They all borrow from a playbook centuries in the making. This image isn't just documenting history, it’s actively constructing it. A very persuasive picture, don't you think? Curator: Definitely persuasive! Amman has woven together portraiture, historical narrative, and hagiography to craft this compelling depiction of Louis. He wanted people to see Louis as more than just a king, as a figure touched by divine grace. It’s so interesting how Amman put that into perspective here. Editor: Thinking about it all now, seeing Louis through Amman's lens reveals more than the historical man himself, doesn't it? We can dissect ideas about governance and morality which says as much about Amman's time as it does about Louis IX. Curator: Precisely. And for me, that duality—that space where past and present converge—is where the true magic of art resides.