Gevoel 1775

Jean-Baptiste Leprince created this brown ink drawing entitled ‘Gevoel,’ meaning feeling or emotion, in 1775. It depicts a man clasping the hand of a seated figure, while in the background, a couple embraces in secrecy. The drawing speaks to the social dynamics of 18th-century France. The Age of Enlightenment emphasized reason and individualism, yet society was still governed by rigid social hierarchies. We can see a contrast between the private indulgence of the embracing couple and the more formal, public encounter in the foreground, suggesting an undercurrent of hidden desires and social critique. The ambiguity of the characters, in the background as well as the main figures, is emphasized by the monochrome shades of brown ink. Art historians often consult period documents, fashion plates, and social histories to further understand the nuances of works like this. In doing so, we can reveal the complex interplay between individual expression, social expectation, and institutional power.