Portret van Nicolas de Nicolai, markies van Goussainville 1666

This 1666 engraving by Antoine Masson depicts Nicolas de Nicolai, the Marquis of Goussainville. The portrait presents the subject in a formal pose within an oval frame. The inscription around the frame reads "De Nicolai Regnivm Rationvm Senatus Princeps," which translates to "Prince of the Senate of the Kingdom of Reason." This suggests the subject's important role in government or intellectual circles. The engraving also features the subject's coat of arms. The overall effect of the work is elegant and dignified, characteristic of the Baroque style. The artist, Antoine Masson, was a French engraver active in the late 17th century, known for his portraiture and historical engravings.