Man tilt zijn geliefde op 1778 - 1779

"Man Tilting His Beloved" is an etching by Gottlieb Friedrich Riedel. Produced in the 18th century, the print reflects the era’s complex negotiation of love, class, and gender. During this period, the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and order coexisted with the playful, often subversive, themes of Rococo art. In this context, Riedel depicts a scene where a young man lifts a woman, watched by an older man, presumably the girl’s father. While appearing light-hearted, the image may reflect broader societal norms related to courtship and familial consent. The artwork, framed with ornate decorations, adds a layer of artifice, questioning the 'naturalness' of these interactions. The image prompts us to consider the power dynamics inherent in these relationships, and who is allowed to partake in love’s dance. The composition invites a meditation on the period’s ideals, and how individuals navigated them in pursuit of happiness and love.