Le vieillard amoureux 1743

Marcus Tuscher made this print, *Le vieillard amoureux*, sometime around 1705-17, and it offers a glimpse into the social mores of the early 18th century. Its Italian title translates to "The Old Man in Love" and sets the stage for a comedic, perhaps even satirical, commentary on courtship and social status. Made in London, the print likely reflects the cultural exchanges happening between England and continental Europe at the time. The scene suggests a critique of arranged marriages or the pursuit of wealth over genuine affection. The older man interrupts a tender moment between two younger lovers. Is Tuscher questioning the power dynamics inherent in courtship rituals or perhaps challenging the institutions that perpetuate such inequalities? By studying the visual codes in Tuscher's work, and by researching the history of marriage and social mobility in 18th-century England, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and political landscape that shaped its creation.