François de Maucroix geflankeerd door de Kerk en Hymen 1718

Bernard Picart created this print of François de Maucroix, flanked by the Church and Hymen, sometime between 1673 and 1733. Picart lived in an era of shifting religious and political landscapes in Europe. His work often navigated the complex interplay between religious, mythological, and historical themes. In this engraving, we see François de Maucroix, a French clergyman and man of letters, positioned between allegorical figures. To his left stands the Church, recognizable by her papal tiara and cross, representing spiritual authority and tradition. To Maucroix’s right is Hymen, the Greek god of marriage, nude and holding a torch. Chains flow between Hymen and Maucroix. Picart places Maucroix between these figures, perhaps to suggest the tensions inherent in balancing religious devotion and personal desires, or spiritual life versus secular life. Look closely at the scene below these figures. This panel hints at the turmoil and conflicts of human existence. Picart uses the allegory and symbolism of the figures to explore the societal tensions of his time. These tensions continue to resonate with us today, as we grapple with our own personal and societal conflicts.