Winter 1732

Nicolas de Larmessin III created this print, titled "Winter," sometime in the early 18th century, after an original painting by Watteau. It captures a scene of aristocratic leisure, but it's also a window into the stark social stratifications of the period. On the frozen pond, figures skate, while others are pulled along in sleds. Notice the stark contrast between the elegantly dressed figures and the servants who facilitate their winter amusements. There's a palpable tension here, a visual representation of the dependence and distance between classes. Larmessin's print echoes larger questions about the roles individuals play within society. How does the artwork reflect societal issues? It highlights an era of opulence and leisure, but the emotional resonance is undeniable, prompting us to reflect on the stories and the unacknowledged labor behind these scenes.