Raymond Poisson en een actrice 1670 - 1724

Jacob Gole created this print, "Raymond Poisson en een actrice", sometime between 1660 and 1737. The print freezes a moment in the vibrant world of 17th-century theater, capturing French actor Raymond Poisson with an actress, both embodying characters of their time. The image reflects the increasing visibility and influence of women in the performing arts, which offered them a unique platform for self-expression, yet often within the confines of societal expectations. Raymond Poisson’s theatrical persona, with its roots in comedic traditions, speaks to the evolving notions of masculinity. It was a time when performers began to challenge and play with gender roles on stage. In this image, Gole mirrors these social dynamics by embedding narratives of identity and performance, inviting us to reflect on the roles we play, both on and off the stage.