Portret van Antoine-Armand de Fradet de Saint-Aoust 1666 - 1707

Gérard Edelinck made this portrait of Antoine-Armand de Fradet de Saint-Aoust with a burin. The lack of date invites us to consider the cultural and historical contexts of the 17th century, an era marked by rigid social hierarchies and the rise of absolutist power in France. Antoine-Armand de Fradet de Saint-Aoust is depicted as a figure of authority and nobility, wearing armor, surrounded by banners, weapons, and heraldic symbols, all of which speak to his high social standing. The intricate details of his garments and the embellishments around him reflect the opulence and extravagance associated with the French aristocracy of the time. But, who was he beyond his title? What were his beliefs? What was it like for him to live in a society deeply entrenched in power and privilege? This portrait, steeped in symbolism and grandeur, serves as a reminder of the power structures that once defined European society, prompting us to reflect on the legacies of aristocracy and the ongoing struggle for equality.