Verongelukken van de luchtballon van Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier en Pierre-Ange Romain bij Garenne du Roi te Wimereux, 15 juni 1785 1785 - 1790

This anonymous engraving captures the tragic accident of Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and Pierre-Ange Romain near Wimereux in 1785, an event that marked a somber turning point in early aviation. Created in the wake of this disaster, the print serves not only as a historical record, but also as a reflection on the era’s fascination with progress and the inherent risks of technological advancement. The detailed depiction of the balloon's fiery descent against the backdrop of the serene French coastline evokes a sense of awe mixed with horror. Consider how the image participates in a narrative of exploration and innovation, while reminding us of the human cost often associated with pushing boundaries. The figures of de Rozier and Romain, immortalized in profile at the bottom of the print, become symbols of ambition cut short. The engraving invites contemplation on the relationship between scientific ambition, human vulnerability, and the unpredictable forces of nature. It stands as a poignant reminder of the dreams and dangers that define human progress.