Maturity 1887

Felicien Rops created this etching titled "Maturity." Considered one of the foremost printmakers of his time, Rops had a distinct style, often exploring themes of decadence, eroticism, and social satire, all hallmarks of the late 19th century. "Maturity" is a perfect example of his satirical approach. Encircling the central figure are images of youth, adulthood and old age. This composition seems to pose questions about how we perform different roles throughout our lives. Here Rops challenges conventional representations of aging and desire by drawing the viewer into a complex emotional terrain. The artist seems to ask, how do societal expectations shape our understanding and experience of maturity?