Jean-Baptiste Colbert c. 17th century

Editor: This is Robert Nanteuil's portrait of Jean-Baptiste Colbert. I'm struck by the intricate detailing of his lace collar. What can you tell me about it? Curator: I see here a meticulous rendering of luxury goods, reflecting Colbert's mercantilist policies. Consider the engraver’s labor. Nanteuil meticulously reproduced Colbert’s image, reinforcing his power through the consumption and display of his image. It's a commodity, an assertion of status. Editor: So, it's about the labor involved in producing and distributing images of power? Curator: Precisely. The materials, the process, and the social context all contribute to the artwork's meaning. Editor: I never considered how much artistry and material went into projecting Colbert's image. Thank you.