Abundance 1655 - 1703

Editor: This print, titled "Abundance" by Gérard Audran, depicts a figure holding a cornucopia. I’m struck by the pillar capital she's balancing on her head - it's so unexpected! What do you make of the symbolism here? Curator: Indeed! The cornucopia is a long-standing symbol of plenty and nourishment. But consider how the pillar capital transforms her. Does it elevate her to the status of a classical goddess, perhaps connecting her to a tradition of representing prosperity? Editor: That's interesting. So, the artist is layering symbols to build meaning? Curator: Precisely. Note also the wheat beneath her feet and how it connects to the inscription "L'abondance". Think about how Audran merges classical imagery with explicit textual cues to ensure his message resonates across time and cultures. Editor: I hadn't considered the text as part of the symbolic language. Thanks, I'll definitely look at prints differently now!