De Franse Vastenavond, ca. 1701-1713 1701 - 1713

This etching, made around 1701-1713 by an anonymous artist, depicts a scene titled "The French Shrove Tuesday" ("De Franse Vastenavond"). It presents a window into the social and political tensions of the era. The carnival setting, traditionally a time of revelry and role reversal, becomes a stage for critiquing French society. The figures engage in acts of satire and protest, possibly reflecting anxieties around class, gender, and power. Are these representations maintaining traditional narratives, or offering alternative perspectives? Consider the dialogues and debates that might have occurred amidst the masked figures. How does the artwork invite us to reflect on the nature of identity, resistance, and cultural expression during this period? It is up to you to see how this image shapes or reflects societal issues.