Gravures de Boucher pour les Oeuvres de Molière [Figures de Boucher pour Molière] 1734 - 1770

This engraving by Jean-Baptiste Mauzaisse illustrates Molière’s play, *George Dandin*. At center, a man holds a flame aloft, illuminating two women on a balcony who are startled by the light. In the shadows, figures lurk. Consider the flame, the focal point. Fire, historically a symbol of revelation, also embodies destruction, and the fleeting nature of truth. We see echoes of this duality across cultures, from the torches of enlightenment to the infernos of damnation. The flame, which has origins in ancient rituals, serves as a metaphor for exposing hidden truths, and for the subconscious desires that, once ignited, can consume reason. Here, the exposed flame may bring forth an unwelcome truth, revealing the clandestine encounters. It is no mere accident that the figures are lurking in the shadows, and are only visible through the open gate at the back; this shadow play reminds us how deeply woven darkness and light are within the human psyche. The play of light and shadow engages us on a subconscious level, evoking a sense of unease.