Three Nymphs Bathing 1787

Francesco Bartolozzi created this print called 'Three Nymphs Bathing'. Prints like this one circulated widely in the late 18th century, offering a glimpse into classical ideals of beauty and leisure. But look closely: who gets to embody these ideals? The nymphs, with their smooth, light skin, reflect a very specific standard of beauty, one that excludes many. Bartolozzi was celebrated for his delicate style, yet his work also reveals the power dynamics of the time, where representations of the female body often catered to a privileged, male gaze. As you consider the nymphs' serene expressions, think about whose stories are missing here, and how our understanding of beauty evolves when we broaden our view.