Wapenbord van Filips de Goede, hertog van Bourgondië 1730 - 1736

This print, made anonymously, depicts the coat of arms of Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the visual language of power and authority in the 15th century Netherlands. The image creates meaning through a dense layering of visual codes. Coats of arms, like this one, were not merely decorative, they were potent symbols of lineage, land ownership, and political alliances. The elaborate frame, adorned with classical motifs, speaks to the Duke's aspirations of grandeur and his engagement with the burgeoning Renaissance culture. The text surrounding the coat of arms lists the Duke's many titles, emphasizing his vast territorial holdings and hereditary rights. Understanding this image requires that we look at the social conditions that shaped its production. The rise of powerful ducal courts, such as Burgundy, fueled a demand for art that would legitimize their rule. Researching the history of the Burgundian court and the role of heraldry in medieval society helps contextualize this image. Art, in this context, becomes a tool for consolidating power and projecting an image of authority.