Le Mesetin 1694 - 1725

This print, titled 'Le Mesetin', was made by an anonymous artist. The work provides a glimpse into the world of performing arts during its time. Here, we see a male actor dressed in costume, perhaps portraying a stock character from the theatre. The inscription suggests he’s a pantomime, someone who aims to please and capture the laughter of the audience. Gender and class are subtly performed here. The actor's elaborate costume marks him as distinct, set apart to entertain. His identity, wrapped up in performance, challenges traditional norms. There's something very modern in the way this print anticipates how identity can be both performed and perceived. It invites us to consider the social roles we play and the expectations we negotiate.