Kroonlijst geflankeerd door Bacchus en Pan 1713

Louis Surugue created this print, "Kroonlijst geflankeerd door Bacchus en Pan," likely in the first half of the 18th century. It gives us insight into the cultural values of the French elite during the Age of Enlightenment. The print depicts a decorative cornice, ornamented with classical figures like Bacchus, the god of wine, and Pan, the god of nature. In the 18th century, this celebration of classical antiquity served to legitimize the power and sophistication of the ruling class. The themes of revelry and abundance reflected the privileged lifestyle of the aristocracy, yet these depictions often masked the social inequalities and economic hardships faced by the majority of the population. Surugue's print invites us to consider how art can simultaneously celebrate beauty and reinforce societal hierarchies, while hinting at the underlying tensions of class and power.