Portret van Charles Le Brun 1696 - 1700

Jacques Lubin produced this print of Charles Le Brun sometime in the late 17th century. Le Brun was not only a prominent painter but also the director of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in France. This institution, founded under the patronage of the monarchy, played a crucial role in shaping artistic standards. Lubin’s portrait captures Le Brun’s role within this structure, as suggested by the flamboyant wig and lace cravat. The inscription highlights Le Brun’s position as 'First Painter to the King'. This image serves as a reminder of the Academy's influence on artistic style and taste. As historians, we can consult the archives of the Royal Academy to investigate its impact on French art during this period. By examining institutional records, we can better understand how power structures shaped artistic production and reception.