Bacchanal 1610 - 1642

Pierre Brebiette created this engraving, Bacchanal, sometime between the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Brebiette was working during a time of significant religious and political upheaval in Europe, and his work reflects an interest in classical themes and mythology. With its figures cavorting and embracing in the waves, Bacchanal presents us with a scene of unrestrained pleasure, and, perhaps, a kind of pre-Christian freedom. The idealized bodies and erotic undertones speak to a certain fantasy, particularly in the historical context of the artist, as the Catholic Church would certainly disapprove of such openly sensual displays. Notice the inclusion of satyrs and sea creatures, which enhances the image’s fantastical elements. Consider how Brebiette's depiction of Bacchanal reflects a longing for an era of pagan freedom. It's an era unburdened by the moral constraints of his own time, while also showcasing the timeless human desire for pleasure and escape.