Programma voor een reünie 1892

Charles Théodore Bernier created this etching, “Programma voor een reünie,” commemorating a reunion in Angers on May 22, 1892. Bernier's print is a window into the cultural life of late 19th-century France, a period marked by rapid social and political change. The inclusion of portraits within wreaths alongside the names of attendees, speaks to the importance of community and shared identity during this time. The imagery is evocative of classical traditions, yet it is grounded in a specific time, place, and social context. Bernier’s choice to depict the city of Angers suggests a deep connection to the local community and landscape. The print serves as more than just a record of an event. It encapsulates a sense of nostalgia, and perhaps even a desire to preserve a moment of unity and camaraderie. The work allows us to reflect on how we, too, seek to create and maintain connections with others, and how art can serve as a powerful tool for remembering and celebrating these bonds.