Augustus 1777

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki created this print called 'Augustus', the sixth of twelve prints representing the months of the year. Chodowiecki lived in a time of great social change and enlightenment, he embraced the era's emphasis on reason and individualism and also had an intense interest in the lives of ordinary people. Here, we see a snapshot of community life, perhaps a village celebrating a harvest or a local festival. The image offers a glimpse into the rituals and communal bonds that were part of everyday life in the 18th century. With music and merriment, all social classes appear to join together. Chodowiecki’s art often reflects his moral and ethical beliefs, inviting viewers to contemplate the values and virtues of society. Although the scene seems idyllic, Chodowiecki does not shy away from representing the complex relationships of the human experience. This is a reminder that the past, like our present, is filled with joy and hardship, and with a need for community and celebration.