Louis-Phélypeaux de la Vrillière 1662

Editor: This is Robert Nanteuil's portrait of Louis-Phélypeaux de la Vrillière. It's an engraving. The detail is incredible. What do you see in terms of the process used to create this image? Curator: Look at the lines, the textures achieved through the manipulation of the metal plate. Consider the labor involved in creating this multiple, and how that makes the image available for consumption. Was it meant to elevate Vrillière, or simply document him? Editor: So, you're saying the materials and production methods have social implications. How were these prints consumed? Curator: Exactly. These were likely distributed among Vrillière's circle, reinforcing his power and status. The very act of commissioning and circulating such a portrait speaks to the social dynamics of the time. What do you make of the frame around the portrait? Editor: It does seem to box him in, maybe reinforcing his status, but also containing him somehow. I never thought about prints in this way. Thanks!