Visitekaartje van drukkerij E. Duchêne te Mons c. 1840 - 1875

This is a calling card for the printing firm E. Duchêne in Mons. Note how the symmetrical arrangement dominates the composition, creating a visually balanced and formal presentation. Two Roman soldiers serve as heraldic supporters flanking an oval cartouche containing the company's name and address, crowned by what seems to be a town's emblem. The lithographic technique allows for detailed linework, seen particularly in the rendering of the figures and the decorative flourishes. The limited color palette—mostly shades of grey and blue—further reinforces the card's classical and somewhat austere aesthetic. This is not just a means of advertising but rather a statement about the firm's commitment to tradition and quality. The overall effect is one of stability and reliability, suggesting that E. Duchêne offers printing services that are both enduring and trustworthy. This formalism creates a sense of order and professionalism. Meaning is created not merely through the imagery, but through the conscious arrangement of visual elements that speak to broader cultural values.