Portret van Chilperik I 1647 - 1678

Nicolas de Larmessin the First created this engraving, *Portret van Chilperik I*, sometime in the late 17th century. It’s now held in the Rijksmuseum. The print presents a portrait of Chilperic the First, who was a Frankish king in the 6th century. The visual codes of royalty are clearly on display here. Chilperic is dressed in regal attire complete with a jeweled hat, heavy chain, and fur-lined robes. Below the portrait, a coat-of-arms is framed within an oval border. The portrait is overlaid with text that describes Chilperic’s place in the succession of French Kings. Made in France, this print reflects the French monarchy's attempts to legitimize their rule by evoking the legacy of ancient kings. The print is an exercise in nation-building and is part of a robust visual culture that supported the monarchy. To understand this portrait more fully, we might consult historical records and genealogical resources to explore the relationship between image and power. Understanding this context enriches our understanding of the artwork.