Maria en Sterne houden een zakdoek vast 1781

Jean Marie Delattre created "Maria en Sterne houden een zakdoek vast" using etching, employing a sepia palette, resulting in a print that exudes both warmth and nostalgia. The print invites us to explore the themes of sentimentality and connection. Note how the figures of Maria and Sterne are meticulously arranged within the circular frame, enhancing the intimacy of the scene. Delattre masterfully uses line and shading to model forms and create a sense of depth, thereby evoking emotional depth. The handkerchief, central to the composition, acts as a signifier of shared emotion, emphasizing the sentimental connection between the characters. This emphasis on shared emotion destabilizes traditional portraiture and narrative, inviting viewers to consider alternative values of compassion and empathy. We can consider Delattre’s piece as an exploration into the semiotics of human relationships, questioning the cultural codes that define our emotions.