Bon Voyage c. 18th century

Editor: This print, "Bon Voyage" by Benoît Audran the Younger, depicts a scene of embarkation. It feels theatrical, almost like a stage set. What echoes or symbols do you observe within this scene? Curator: The ships, of course, represent journeys, but also the potential for adventure, commerce, or even exile. Note the couple in the foreground. Their gestures suggest a farewell. Editor: Do you think their story is connected to the ships? Curator: Perhaps. It invites us to consider the emotional weight of departures and the cultural memory of voyages, both desired and forced, shaping identity across generations. What resonates most with you? Editor: The bittersweet mix of hope and melancholy, definitely. Thanks for sharing your insight! Curator: My pleasure. It's a reminder that images are never just pictures; they are vessels of meaning.