Portiek met attiek c. 1670 - 1680

Jean Lepautre made this print of a portal with attic, sometime in the mid-17th century. Lepautre was a prolific designer and engraver, whose works offer insight into the cultural and social values of his time. This print demonstrates the prevailing aesthetic of the French Baroque period, characterized by grandeur and elaborate ornamentation. The architectural design reflects the era’s emphasis on power, order, and classical ideals, often employed to legitimize the ruling elite. The inclusion of allegorical figures and decorative motifs reinforces the symbolic language used to convey status and authority. Understanding this print requires us to consider the role of art within the social and political context of 17th-century France. By examining historical documents, architectural treatises, and contemporary accounts, we can gain deeper insights into the cultural values and power structures that shaped Lepautre's artistic practice. The print serves as a window into a world where art and architecture were tools for constructing and reinforcing social hierarchies.