Duel na een gekostumeerd bal 1852 - 1888

Paul Adolphe Rajon created this print titled ‘Duel after a costume ball’ using etching. The image offers a glimpse into the social rituals of 19th-century Europe, where honor and reputation were fiercely defended, often through duels. The setting, a snow-covered landscape, starkly contrasts with the opulence of a costume ball, highlighting the abrupt transition from celebration to violence. The fallen woman and the aftermath of the duel, suggest a critique of the social norms and expectations that led to such tragic outcomes. Rajon’s work invites us to question the values of a society where personal honor was often placed above human life. To fully understand this piece, one might look into the history of dueling, the social codes of the time, and the role of art in commenting on these practices. By exploring these avenues, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the artwork's social and cultural significance.