In Paul en Virginia ziet men op deze prent, / De liefde en deugd, als op den zelven stam geënt / On voit dans cette estampe en Paul et Virginie, / L'amour et la vertu qui unirent leur vie 1833 - 1870

Glenisson and Van Genechten created this print of "Paul and Virginia" to depict a story of virtuous love. This artwork, made without specific dating, reflects the sentimental ideals popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The narrative visualised in the print, presents a romanticised view of love and morality through its portrayal of a mixed-race relationship. Set in a colonial context, the story raises questions about race, class, and the exoticisation of non-European cultures. In the narrative, the characters navigate themes of innocence, temptation, and sacrifice within a social hierarchy marked by inequality. The print invites us to reflect on the complexities of love, virtue, and colonial power dynamics. Consider the cultural and historical context that shaped the story, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of the narrative. The image prompts a dialogue about the legacy of colonialism and its enduring impact on representations of love, race, and identity.