Rustic Landscape 1772

Editor: So, we’re looking at Nicolas Pérignon the Elder’s "Rustic Landscape," etched in 1772. It has this feeling of simple, rural life, but something feels constructed about it. How do you interpret this work in its historical context? Curator: Well, considering this etching falls within the Neoclassical movement, it's interesting to think about the image it presents and to whom. At first glance, it is this rustic, idyllic scene but given the period in which this work was created, we should remember who it would appeal to, who could buy it and display it and importantly what narratives and messaging this etching helped perpetuate about the peasantry for the consumption of an elite viewership? Do you think Pérignon accurately portrayed rural life or offered a more palatable version for urban audiences? Editor: That's a great point, I didn’t consider it might be a romanticized version of country life! I see your point - it does feel 'cleaned up', almost like stage dressing, to present some constructed idea to more affluent art consumers. Curator: Exactly! Also, considering the rising importance of art markets and public exhibitions at this time, this artwork not only depicts a "rustic" landscape but participates in creating it for wider public consumption. Think about the implications that it holds on how it affects contemporary societal views and biases concerning the lower socio-economic echelons and even rural inhabitants of France, if this scene and other artistic, literary and theatrical media help shape the views of this group through popular imagery. How then does this reflect the purpose and agency of museums in displaying them centuries later? Editor: It reframes everything. It really brings home how art doesn't just reflect reality, it shapes perceptions and affects narratives. Thank you! Curator: Absolutely. And remembering that art operates within specific economic, political and social systems really emphasizes the critical lens with which museums must continue to present and discuss them.