Omslag voor Physionomie de la société en Europe 1835 - 1837

This is Jean-Baptiste Madou’s cover for *Physionomie de la société en Europe*, an exploration of European society since the 15th century. Madou was working in a Belgium deeply affected by social and political change. As a painter and lithographer, he was celebrated for his satirical observations of contemporary life, reflecting the shifting identities within Europe. The title hints at a study of the 'physiognomy' of society, suggesting that the character and nature of European society could be read through its external appearance. The cover presents the text with layered fonts and elaborate flourishes, and this ornate style reflects the societal emphasis on surface and presentation. The phrase "Depuis le 15e siècle jusqu'à nos jours" implies a continuous and evolving European identity. It suggests a desire to understand how historical trends have shaped the present. Madou uses a traditional medium to engage with questions of national and personal identity in an era of cultural transformation. The cover invites us to reflect on the relationship between outward appearances and deeper societal realities.