Vaas met maskers 1729 - 1737

This print, made by Gabriel Huquier in the 18th century, depicts an elaborate vase adorned with masks. The image offers us a glimpse into the world of decorative arts during the reign of Louis XV in France. Huquier’s print reproduces a design by the sculptor Edmé Bouchardon. The vase, sprouting grotesque masks and seashell patterns, embodies the Rococo style, which was popular among the elites of that era. The inscription "avec privilege du Roy" tells us that the image was published with royal approval. This detail highlights the importance of royal patronage in the art world of the time, and the institutional structures which governed what could be produced and disseminated. To fully appreciate this print, we need to research the social networks of artists, designers, and patrons who were part of the royal court. By consulting period documents, such as trade journals, letters, and inventories, we can shed light on the cultural meanings attached to images like this, and better understand the structures which gave them meaning.