François Servien 1656

Robert Nanteuil created this engraving of François Servien sometime in the mid-17th century. As one of the most celebrated printmakers in France, Nanteuil primarily dedicated his practice to portraiture. In this image, we see how visual codes and institutional structures reinforced social hierarchy in France. The laurel wreath surrounding Servien’s portrait emulates frames found in aristocratic portraiture, while the coat of arms at the bottom indicates noble lineage and a system of inherited status. These symbols worked to augment Servien's status as a government official under King Louis XIV. Nanteuil’s prints were not just artistic creations, they also served as tools for promoting the image of powerful individuals, reinforcing social norms and power structures. Historians can turn to sources like period publications, letters, and institutional records to enrich our understanding of this print. Careful attention to historical context reveals the important role of art in shaping social perceptions.