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

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.