Portret van Pierre-Jean de Béranger c. 1819 - 1834

Jacques Sturm created this print of Pierre-Jean de Béranger sometime in the first half of the 19th century. It presents us with an image of a man of letters, but more importantly, it evokes the rise of a public figure in France during a period of great social change. The print's power lies in its ability to navigate the complex relationship between the individual and the social forces at play. Pierre-Jean de Béranger was a celebrated songwriter and poet. The image carries a sense of gravitas and perhaps a hint of melancholy. The bars in the background are a reference to a time when Béranger was imprisoned for songs deemed critical of the restored monarchy. Sturm's portrait invites us to consider the artist's role in shaping public opinion and challenging established norms. Historical research into the context of this print can reveal much about the politics of imagery and the social conditions that shaped artistic production. The study of prints, newspapers, and other media provide valuable insights into the complex ways in which art engages with and shapes the world around it.