Zicht op de Rue de Rivoli 1838

This print by Louis-Julien Jacottet captures a view of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, using delicate lines and muted tones of lithography. The composition is dominated by a strong linear perspective, drawing the eye into the distance along the receding lines of buildings and street. Jacottet’s choice to emphasize the street's architectural structure raises questions about representation and urban space. The regularity of the buildings and arcades creates a sense of order and control. Yet, the subtle variations in shading and detail disrupt any sense of perfect uniformity. The use of linear perspective and careful detailing invites us to consider the print not just as a depiction of a street, but as an exploration of how we perceive and experience urban environments. In this way, the artwork prompts viewers to engage in a dialogue about the nature of urban space.