Facetious Inventions of Love and War c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Facetious Inventions of Love and War" by François Collignon, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a small etching, and I’m immediately struck by the figure's exaggerated features and the satirical tone. What societal commentary do you see in this work? Curator: The grotesque figure and the title itself suggests a critique of power, particularly military power and perhaps even courtly love. How does the figure, burdened by his hat, flag, and oversized clothing, seem to you in relation to contemporary discussions of gendered expectations and performance? Editor: I see him struggling, almost suffocated by the symbols he carries. It makes me think about how societal expectations can feel like a costume, weighing us down. Curator: Precisely! And notice the figures in the background – they appear oblivious, highlighting the absurdity of the main figure's pompous display. Perhaps Collignon is inviting us to question the very foundations upon which power structures are built. Editor: I hadn't considered that. Now I see a deeper critique of societal roles and the burdens they impose. Curator: It’s a powerful reminder that art can challenge and subvert dominant narratives, even centuries later.