Louis-François Bertin (1766-1841), also known as Bertin l’Aîné (Bertin the Elder), was director of the Journal des débats as from 1799. With his effigy, Ingres created the archetype of the triumphant bourgeoisie, conveying a sense of power. Monsieur Bertin holds a unique place in the history of 19th-century portraiture and in Ingres’s artistic career. Through rich documentation and detailed analysis, the author helps readers understand the profound meaning of one of the Musée du Louvre’s most popular masterpieces.