Schenkkan op voet van drie tritons 1669 - 1693

Jean Lepautre created this print of an elaborate ewer sometime in the 17th century. The print gives us insight into the cultural values of the French court. The image itself, with tritons, classical figures and elaborate ornament, signals a very self-conscious revival of classical antiquity, which was fashionable at the time. The inclusion of an audience to the bottom left of the image, suggests that this object would have been used as a status symbol. Lepautre probably made this print as a sample design for wealthy patrons who wanted the most up-to-date styles. By studying the artist's other works, the patronage system of the time, and the history of the decorative arts, we can better understand the meaning and significance of this print in its original context.