Masker met baard 1626 - 1676

This is "Masker met baard," or "Mask with beard" in English, a small etching made by François Chauveau sometime between 1613 and 1676. Consider the 17th century, a period defined by the Baroque style and the rise of absolutist monarchies. Chauveau, working in France, was deeply embedded in this world, serving the court of Louis XIV and illustrating for prominent literary figures. This work gives us a glimpse into the period’s fascination with masks, which were not just for disguise, but a powerful tool for social commentary and theatrical expression. The mask’s exaggerated features invite us to consider the role of caricature in reflecting and distorting societal norms. What does it mean to conceal and reveal aspects of identity? The intricate details of the etching draw you into a world of hidden meanings, where the grotesque can become a vehicle for truth.