Gezicht op het Hôtel des Invalides van boven 1728 - 1755

Claude Lucas created this print, "View of the Hôtel des Invalides from Above," in the 18th century, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the grand Parisian complex. The Hôtel des Invalides was built by Louis the XIV to house war veterans. Lucas's print provides an intriguing glimpse into the social and political landscape of 18th-century France. The image's precise lines and detailed rendering reflect a societal emphasis on order and control, mirroring the architectural design itself. However, it is not only a visual document; it is also a cultural artifact. What stories do we tell about those who serve? How do we care for those broken by war? The print invites us to consider the narratives we construct around power, care, and national identity. As we contemplate Lucas’s detailed rendering, let’s think about the experiences of those within its walls.