Spiegel en panelen 1733 - 1768

Carl Albert von Lespilliez created this print, Spiegel en panelen, sometime in the 18th century. This print immediately strikes one as a study in symmetry and controlled ornamentation. The composition is structured around three vertical panels. The central panel, which features a mirror, is flanked by two side panels, labeled A and B. Note the intricate, curvilinear designs that frame each panel and the overall effect of balance achieved through the mirroring of motifs on either side of the central axis. This symmetry invites a formal reading of order and control. Here, we witness the visual language of the Rococo period, characterized by asymmetry, elegance, and a celebration of decorative arts. But, beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lespilliez's print hints at broader philosophical concerns. The mirror, a key element in the composition, does not merely reflect the viewer's image, but rather poses questions about representation and reality. The print, with its structured arrangement and reflective surface, encourages us to consider the interplay between art, perception, and self-recognition.