Vijf studies 1682 - 1706

Jean Lepautre made this print called "Five Studies" some time in the 17th century. This was a period in France when the Academy was solidifying its power. Here, we see studies of idealized male figures rendered in careful detail. What's striking is that these are not portraits from life but, rather, academic exercises. Lepautre wants to show off his knowledge of classical sculpture and anatomy. The bodies are objects of study, carefully composed. There's a social hierarchy implied here: the artist is elevated as someone with specialized knowledge, while the viewer is meant to admire his skill and erudition. By looking at prints and drawings like these, along with the records of the Academy, we can better understand how art was taught and what values it promoted in French society at this time. The meaning of art is always tied to its social and institutional context.