Liefde en Wijsheid 1791 - 1879

This print, “Love and Wisdom”, was made by Jacques Louis Pérée, an artist born in France in 1769. Here, we see Cupid, the god of love, leaning intimately on a plinth bearing a bust. The French inscription gives us a clue as to its meaning: 'The dawn of reason begins to shine on the genius of liberty and establishes the empire of wisdom on earth.' This print reflects the values of the Enlightenment, a philosophical movement emphasizing reason and individualism. It’s interesting to see how Pérée brings together classical allegory and contemporary political thought. Cupid, a figure from ancient myth, is re-imagined here as an advocate for reason and progress. This print offers a glimpse into the visual culture of late 18th-century France, a time of revolutionary change. By studying works like these, and consulting historical documents, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between art, politics, and society.