Fontein naar rechts gekeerd c. 1657 - 1661

Editor: This engraving, “Fontein naar rechts gekeerd” – or “Fountain facing right,” created around 1657-1661 by Jean Lepautre, has such an interesting combination of grandiose scale and meticulous detail. I am struck by the contrast between the highly ornamented fountain on the left and the classical scene unfolding on the right. What’s your take on how this piece works, conceptually? Curator: Lepautre presents us with more than just a fountain; it’s a declaration of power. Notice how the very act of representing a public fountain transforms it into a spectacle, an assertion of the patron’s wealth and taste. The historical context here is vital. Think about the role of public works in solidifying authority – how did royal commissions shape civic spaces, and thus public opinion, during the Baroque era? Editor: So, it’s not just a pretty picture; it's actually functioning on a deeper level? I suppose that the sheer exuberance of the Baroque style here mirrors a period of absolutist rule. Curator: Precisely. Consider how the museum or collection this print would have belonged to influenced its perception and interpretation over time. Was it intended as an educational tool for aspiring artists? A symbol of national pride showcased in a royal cabinet? What visual and cultural traditions does it perpetuate? Editor: The public role of art, how art can reinforce or even challenge systems… it gives me so much more to think about. This discussion has really shifted my perspective. Thank you. Curator: Indeed, seeing art as an integral part of the political and social landscape allows us to unravel a much richer narrative, and in doing so to better appreciate our world.