November 1652 - 1711

Henri Bonnart created this print entitled ‘November.’ It gives us a glimpse into the leisure activities of the French aristocracy during the late 17th century. In the image, we see a woman dressed in a lavish gown, complete with elaborate hairstyle, holding a falcon, while a male servant stands behind her with a rifle. This image speaks volumes about the gendered dimensions of aristocratic life. The woman's engagement in falconry, traditionally a noble pursuit, contrasts with the man's role as a hunter, reinforcing traditional gender roles and class distinctions. The print’s display of luxury also hints at the social inequalities prevalent during this time, reflecting the vast differences in experience between the aristocracy and the lower classes. Ultimately, ‘November’ is a reminder of the complex interplay between personal expression, social expectation, and historical context.