Portrait of Louis-Philippe, duc d'Orléans 1778

This is Augustin de Saint-Aubin’s engraving, 'Portrait of Louis-Philippe, duc d'Orléans'. Saint-Aubin was a leading printmaker during a time when printed images played a crucial role in shaping public perception and disseminating cultural and political ideas. The portrait is an allegorical representation of Louis-Philippe, showcasing the Duke's status and character through symbolic imagery. He is depicted in an oval frame, adorned with cherubs, books, and architectural motifs, alluding to his noble lineage, intellectual pursuits, and refined taste. Saint-Aubin, like other artists of his time, served as a visual communicator for the elite. The image promoted the Duke’s identity within the rigid social hierarchy of pre-revolutionary France. These portraits not only reflected the sitter’s status, but also idealized their image, reinforcing the power structures of the era. It stands as a testament to the complex interplay of art, identity, and power in 18th-century France.