Longitudinal and Cross Sections of the Salons of the Hôtel de Montholon 1785 - 1786

Jean Jacques Lequeu rendered these cross sections of the Salons of the Hôtel de Montholon without a specified date, using pen, ink, watercolor, and graphite. The prominent motifs of classical antiquity, such as acanthus leaves and symmetrical arrangements, evoke a sense of order and harmony emblematic of Enlightenment ideals. Observe how these architectural details, reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman designs, resurface throughout history. The acanthus leaf, for instance, originally seen in Corinthian capitals, is reinterpreted here as a symbol of enduring aesthetic values. The symmetry and balance in Lequeu's designs also hold psychological implications. This pursuit of equilibrium can be seen as an attempt to impose order on the unpredictable nature of existence, reflecting a deep-seated human desire for stability and control. The cyclical journey of such symbols demonstrates their adaptability and continuous relevance. They reappear, transformed yet recognizable, echoing our collective cultural memory, and reminding us that the past is perpetually present, shaping our perceptions and experiences.