The Broken Fan 1787 - 1793

Louis Marin Bonnet created "The Broken Fan" using etching and engraving techniques sometime in the late 18th century. Bonnet was a notable figure in French art, known for his contributions to color printmaking. In this piece, we see a boudoir scene that speaks to the social dynamics of the Rococo era. The setting suggests intimacy, but the woman’s broken fan and resistant posture hint at a power struggle. During this time, a woman's reputation was tied to her chastity, making scenes like this fraught with tension. The work encourages a dialogue about gender, desire, and the complex negotiations of courtship. Are we witnessing a moment of genuine connection, or a calculated dance of social maneuvering? The broken fan becomes symbolic, representing both a loss of composure and a disruption of societal expectations.