Pierre Mignard c. 17th century

Curator: This print, housed at the Harvard Art Museums, presents a portrait of Pierre Mignard by Gérard Edelinck. Editor: The texture is incredible! The way the light catches the curls in his hair—it almost feels like you could reach out and touch them. Curator: Indeed, Edelinck was a master of capturing likeness. Mignard, identified here as "Premier Peintre du Roy," the King's First Painter, was a prominent figure in the artistic establishment of his time. Editor: And that oval frame, adorned with what appears to be a coat of arms, signifies status and prestige. These symbols were carefully constructed to convey Mignard’s authority within the French court. Curator: Absolutely. We can see how Edelinck’s engraving served as a visual representation of Mignard's position and cultural influence. Editor: Looking at this portrait, I am reminded how art can function as a public declaration of identity and power. Curator: Yes, it makes me think about the lasting impact of symbols, even centuries later.