Contes et nouvelles en vers par Jean de la Fontaine 1795

Editor: Here we have *Contes et nouvelles en vers* by Jean de la Fontaine, a book dating back to 1795. I’m immediately struck by the elaborate gold embossing against the bright red cover; it really pops! What kind of story does this cover tell you, from a historical perspective? Curator: This cover, with its French origin, hints at a fascinating interplay between artistic expression and socio-political context. Look closely at the central motif – the crest, the angels. These symbols evoke power and status, and tell a story of the book’s intended audience. What do you notice about the crest itself? Editor: It’s adorned with hearts! Is that common for the period? Curator: Hearts weren't uncommon as decorative elements. The combination, though, can reflect evolving societal values. Who would commission something like this and why is an interesting question. The presence of angels suggests more than mere love. How do you think it affects the book’s message and the reader's experience? Editor: I guess I assumed the book itself, filled with stories, was the important part, but the cover makes it a whole package. It elevates the everyday; it’s a status symbol, and that changes how the stories are read. Curator: Precisely! It shifts the reception and contributes to the aura surrounding art, stories, and even the reader. Looking at this tells us a lot about cultural and political institutions that defined its existence. It emphasizes the politics of display. Editor: This really changed my perspective. It’s no longer just a book; it's a historical object shaped by forces outside the narrative inside. Thank you. Curator: And it's a testament to how design and artistry embed social narratives!