Hidden silhouettes of the rulers of Europe 1794

This print, made by Lussano in 1794, presents hidden silhouettes of European rulers. It invites us to consider how political power was represented during a period of immense social upheaval. The image, rendered in delicate lines, employs visual codes characteristic of the late 18th century. Obelisks, crowns, and regal animals act as symbols of power. But these symbols are cleverly integrated into a naturalistic landscape. Look closely, and you'll notice the silhouettes of the monarchs embedded within the foliage and stone. The work was made during the French Revolution, a time when the authority of Europe’s monarchies was openly challenged. The hidden nature of the silhouettes may represent the precarious position of the European aristocracy. To fully understand the print, we can look into the cultural and political history of the late 18th century, examining pamphlets, newspapers, and other printed materials. It's through this kind of social history research that the true meaning of art emerges.