September 1777

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki created this print, titled 'September', sometime in the 18th century. The print offers us a glimpse into the social and moral values of the time. At first glance, we see a scene of figures under a tree, seemingly engaged in a casual activity. But consider the era's rigid class structure. Notice the power dynamics. The figures tending to the fallen fruit are in a subservient position, while another figure remains elevated in the tree. The accompanying text hints at social critique, questioning who is truly served and at whose expense. Chodowiecki challenges the viewers to reflect on the cost of maintaining societal hierarchies. In a time of social upheaval and philosophical questioning, Chodowiecki uses his art to provoke thought about the ethics of labor and the distribution of resources. The work invites us to contemplate the emotional weight of inequality and the personal stories behind societal structures.