J. B. Rousseau c. 18th century

Editor: So, this is Jean-Baptiste de Grateloup's engraving of J. B. Rousseau, housed at Harvard. It's quite small, a delicate little thing. What strikes me most is the patterned background behind the oval portrait. How would you interpret the effect of that? Curator: Ah, yes, the textured background! It's a playful touch, isn't it? It almost feels like wallpaper, hinting perhaps at the domestic sphere and the rising importance of the individual. Do you think it contrasts with the formal portrait, creating a slight tension? Editor: I do, actually! It keeps it from feeling too stuffy. Is that contrast intentional, do you think? Curator: Possibly! It makes me wonder about Grateloup's relationship to Rousseau himself. Was he admiring, critical, or perhaps a bit of both? Art is rarely straightforward, is it? Editor: Definitely makes you think. Thanks for pointing that out, I’ll never see portraiture the same way again!