Second View of Charenton near Paris 1730 - 1783

Peter Paul Benazech created this print, "Second View of Charenton near Paris", in the 18th century. It offers a glimpse into the picturesque aesthetic that gained popularity during that time in France. Charenton, near Paris, was known for its asylum, but here, the scene is devoid of overt social commentary, focusing instead on the aesthetic qualities of the landscape. This idealized view, however, begs the question of what is omitted and what social realities are glossed over in pursuit of beauty. The presence of figures engaged in leisure activities further constructs an image of harmonious existence, far removed from the social unrest brewing beneath the surface of French society at the time. To truly understand this print, we must turn to historical sources—maps, social records, and contemporary accounts—to uncover the complex narratives embedded within this seemingly innocent landscape. The role of the historian, then, is to peel back layers of representation, revealing the interplay between art, society, and power.