Vuurbok met vazen 1772 - 1779

Jean Pelletier created this print of a fire dog with vases sometime in the 18th century. Here, Pelletier offers a design for elite domestic life. The print makes clear that the modern home is to be decorated in the neoclassical style. As we examine the print, note the Greek key pattern on the vase’s pedestal, the laurel wreaths, and other classical motifs. The design is French; the text is in French and the artist was French. As the French monarchy sought to consolidate its power, it looked to classical antiquity for aesthetic inspiration. By evoking Greece and Rome, France connected itself to the glory of past empires, which made the monarchy seem more legitimate and powerful. For those interested in learning more, I suggest looking at period architectural magazines and design sample books to understand better how images like this circulated and shaped popular taste.