Onderboezem tussen twee dubbele Korintische zuilen c. 1656 - 1657

Jean Lepautre created this print, *Onderboezem tussen twee dubbele Korintische zuilen*, in the 17th century. During this time, France was experiencing a cultural flourishing under the reign of Louis XIV, with art and architecture becoming tools to project power and grandeur. The print depicts an elaborate overdoor featuring classical architectural elements such as Corinthian columns, sculptures of female figures and cherubs, and decorative wreaths. These elements speak to a societal emphasis on order, reason, and classical ideals. Yet, while the overall aesthetic is one of opulence and refinement, the female figures, placed as supporting elements, subtly hint at the gender dynamics of the time. Women were often relegated to decorative roles, even in artistic representations. Lepautre’s work offers us a window into the aesthetic values and social hierarchies of 17th-century France. The emotional impact of the piece lies in its ability to evoke a sense of awe and admiration for the established order. The classical motifs and idealized forms speak to a desire for timelessness, even as the underlying social structures were subject to change and challenge.