Charles-René Péan, Seigneur de Mosnac 1768

This terracotta medallion of Charles-René Péan, Seigneur de Mosnac, was created by Jean-Baptiste Nini in the eighteenth century. The profile portrait, a format that dates back to ancient coins and cameos, presents more than just a likeness; it speaks to enduring notions of power and status. Note how the circular shape, reminiscent of ancient Roman portrait medallions, invokes ideas of imperial authority and classical virtue. Throughout history, rulers and elites have adopted this format to associate themselves with the glory of past empires, seeking to legitimize their status. The act of memorializing oneself in such a manner reveals a deep-seated desire to transcend mortality, aligning with cultural memories of great leaders and their legacies. Even today, the profile portrait resonates, a testament to the enduring power of symbols and how they evolve across time. It is a continuous cycle, each era reinterpreting and reshaping symbols.