Portret van Louis-Gabriel Suchet, hertog van Albufera c. 1818

This is a portrait of Louis-Gabriel Suchet, Duke of Albufera, created by Charles Aimé Forestier. The print is dominated by a symmetrical composition, with Suchet's figure centered, creating a sense of balance and formality. The limited tonal range emphasizes line and form, highlighting the subject's features and military attire. The cross-hatching technique builds depth and shadow, articulating the textures of the uniform and the contours of Suchet's face. This method of creating the image draws attention to the details of rank and status, like medals and epaulettes, all of which are carefully rendered to convey authority. The formal pose and precise lines suggest an attempt to capture not just likeness but also the essence of Suchet’s military identity. The very structure of the portrait reinforces the values of order, control, and hierarchy that Suchet represented. Note how the rigid structure supports the intended cultural narrative.