Gezelschap in studeervertrek 1740

Jan Punt created this print titled "Gezelschap in studeervertrek" around 1740. It offers a glimpse into the cultural values and social dynamics of 18th-century Dutch society. The print portrays a scene of domestic life, but it also touches on the era's debates around gender roles and intellectualism. The title "Les Femmes Scavantes" refers to Molière’s play about educated women, who are ridiculed for their intellectual pursuits. The women in the print, adorned in elaborate dresses, embody the complexities of femininity. The image seems to question whether their pursuit of knowledge aligns or conflicts with societal expectations. The man appears almost like a caricature, and it's difficult not to feel a sense of unease. Punt’s piece reflects how intellectualism and gender were perceived and negotiated in the social circles of the time.