The Jumping Doubs (La Saut du Doubs) 1830 - 1900

Jean Charles Pardinel created this print, The Jumping Doubs, in France, likely in the mid-19th century. The print depicts a well-dressed man speaking with a seated woman in traditional dress, with another man lurking in the shadows. It’s illustrative of the social codes and tensions of the time. The composition tells a story of class difference and perhaps illicit romance. The man's attire signifies his status, while the woman’s posture indicates a plea or negotiation. The lurking figure adds an element of intrigue. The print reflects France's complex social hierarchy and the romanticism of rural life prevalent in 19th-century art and literature. Such images played a role in shaping national identity and cultural values. To fully understand this print, one might research the social customs of 19th-century France, the significance of regional dress, and the popular narratives of the time. The meaning of this artwork is contingent on the socio-cultural context in which it was made and viewed.