Decembre, from the Almanach iconologique 1760 - 1770

Joseph de Longueil created this print, "Decembre," around 1770 as part of an iconological almanac. The scene, framed by a precise border, invites contemplation through its formal arrangement. An androgynous, winged figure dominates the composition, holding a shield emblazoned with the sign of Capricorn. The figure, rendered with fine lines, embodies a semiotic bridge, linking classical allegory with the practical function of the calendar. To the left, infant-like figures play, while a boar feasts on fallen nuts to the right, symbols perhaps, of innocence and indulgence. These elements are meticulously placed, creating a balanced yet dynamic tableau. The subtle gradations of light and shadow, achieved through delicate hatching, add depth and texture. The print's visual clarity encourages a dialogue between form and content, tradition and innovation. This structured approach doesn't just depict December; it interprets it through a complex interplay of signs and symbols, reflecting the intellectual currents of its time.