La Famille du Fermier 1745 - 1806

Jean-Honoré Fragonard created "La Famille du Fermier" using etching in the late 18th century. The scene is dominated by the motif of the family, an icon deeply rooted in cultural memory. The mother, surrounded by her children, evokes images of the Madonna, a symbol of nurturing and care, which has been repeated and reinterpreted throughout art history. Note how Fragonard uses the classical ruin as a backdrop to this family scene. The ruin signifies the passage of time and the impermanence of human achievements. Yet, within this setting, the family unit persists. It reminds me of the "Ubi sunt" motif, a meditation on mortality and the transience of life. This motif, seen in medieval poetry and art, finds a subtle echo here. Observe how the dog and donkey are seamlessly integrated into the family tableau. These animals, often associated with loyalty and humility, invite us to consider the roles they play within the family. This is a visual representation of the cycle of life, resonating with our collective memories and engaging us on a subconscious level.