Maria Serre, Mother of Hyacinthe Rigaud c. 18th century

Editor: This engraving by Pierre Drevet captures Maria Serre, mother of Hyacinthe Rigaud. It feels so formal, yet the draped fabric adds a theatrical touch. What do you make of this? Curator: It’s like a play within a play! Drevet gives us a portrait, within a portrait, staged within a very constructed scene. It begs the question: what is the real Maria Serre? And did she ever anticipate becoming the subject of such elaborate framing? Editor: So, it’s not just about capturing her likeness, but about constructing a story around her? Curator: Exactly! And perhaps, also about establishing the legacy of her son, Hyacinthe Rigaud, the famous portraitist. What do you think, does that resonate? Editor: Definitely. I guess I'll never look at a portrait the same way again. Curator: Me neither. It's all just beautifully arranged artifice, isn't it?