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Abraham Bosse

Man with a Cane, seen from behind, from The Garden of French Nobility

1629
Etching and engraving on ivory laid paper
14.2 × 9.7 cm (5.6 × 3.8 in)

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In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Abraham Bosse’s understanding of Parisian high society and culture informs The Garden of French Nobility , a set of 18 plates from the first of his important print series. Working from drawings by fellow artist Jean de Saint-Igny, Bosse depicted an officer from the king’s court in contemporary fashion. Seventeenth-century French society saw a burgeoning of the bourgeoisie, along with attitudes and dress that attested to their success. Bosse’s anonymous officer stands poised and dignified, showing off his regalia against a diminutive background. His billowing cloak, lace trim, and graceful plumed hat indicate his rank.

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