De stervende bubbelheer John Law, 1720 1720

Curator: Let’s turn our attention to an engraving, a print on paper created around 1720. It’s titled "De stervende bubbelheer John Law, 1720," which translates roughly to "The Dying Bubble Lord John Law." Editor: It’s… intense. Chaotic, even. A cluster of figures crowded together, and there's a sense of drama bordering on hysteria. Someone in the center appears to be collapsing or deceased, the focus is directed in their last moments with so many onlookers. Curator: Exactly. The image depicts the downfall of John Law, a Scottish economist whose financial schemes led to a massive stock market bubble in France. The scene portrays him in his last moments succumbing to failure, held in the arms of "Madame Compagnie," symbolizing the Mississippi Company, the very entity that caused the speculation. Editor: The figures around him seem to be a mixture of distress, maybe mockery? It’s like they are embodying the varying public reactions to the economic collapse— the loss of wealth, or maybe anger at having been fooled. The style, with the dramatic poses and cluttered composition, speaks of the Baroque. Curator: Definitely. This engraving is from the Baroque, marked by excess detail and energy. The choice of graphic art helps spread messages critical of John Law, especially targeting political and cultural elites. The bubbles probably symbolizes fleeting fortunes or grandiose but ultimately unrealized projects and plans. Editor: The satirical tone seems incredibly relevant today, reflecting anxieties about economic instability. There are several contemporary echoes when we reflect on current investment schemes or cryptocurrency booms and busts and financial downfalls. It feels incredibly connected. Curator: These themes of deception, inflated value, and devastating consequences remain so relevant. Perhaps, remembering the pitfalls of the past empowers to make better and informed decisions and actions. Editor: Maybe. This piece might serve as a historical warning. Art reflecting political failures such as the Bubble Lord John Law, prompts reflections not only the artwork in terms of history, but also regarding more significant considerations relating to the current day.