Jongen met valk 1848 - 1862

Célestin Nanteuil created "Jongen met valk," or "Boy with Falcon," using lithography, a medium known for its accessibility and use in popular prints. During Nanteuil’s time, falconry, depicted here, was both a regal sport and a symbol of aristocratic privilege, steeped in traditions of power and social hierarchy. The boy's attire subtly hints at a life of leisure, contrasting sharply with the era's laboring classes. Consider the relationship between the boy and the falcon. Is the falcon a mere pet, or does it represent something more profound about the boy’s identity, perhaps a projection of his own aspirations for freedom and control? Nanteuil places us in the intimate space of contemplation, inviting a dialogue on the complexities of social status and the personal quests for identity that transcend societal boundaries. The artwork resonates as a thoughtful reflection on the intersection of privilege and personal identity during a time of social transformation.