Demolition of the Château of Meudon 1806

Hubert Robert painted 'Demolition of the Château of Meudon' in France during a period of massive upheaval. It depicts exactly what the title suggests: the demolition of a castle. The Meudon was once a symbol of royal power, but by the time Robert painted this, it was being torn down after the French Revolution. The image creates meaning through the visual evidence of destruction, and the people are scattered around in a way that speaks to a new social order. The workers are the focus of the painting rather than the aristocracy who once occupied the castle. Robert's work invites us to consider the relationship between art, power, and social change during this period. To understand it better, we might consult archival records, political pamphlets, and other visual sources. These resources help us understand art's role in reflecting and shaping a changing society.