Huwelijk van Henriette en Clitandre 1878 - 1879

This print, "Huwelijk van Henriette en Clitandre," was created by Jean-Antoine-Valentin Foulquier. Its monochrome palette and diminutive scale immediately draw us into a world of intimate observation, structured around a central narrative scene. The composition is meticulously arranged, dividing the space into zones of activity. We see a clear separation between the active foreground and a more passively rendered background. The figures are delineated with precise lines, defining their forms and interactions. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth, accentuating the textures of the fabrics and the architectural details of the room. The formal structure of the image – its linear precision and spatial arrangement – can be interpreted as a reflection of societal structures and power dynamics. The clarity of lines and the deliberate composition might suggest an attempt to codify social relationships, fixing them within a defined visual framework. It serves to explore the ways in which visual forms can reflect and reinforce cultural norms, while also inviting us to question the rigidity of these structures.