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Caricature of the clergy at the Constituent Assembly of December 1790 refuting the
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Caricature of the clergy at the Constituent Assembly of December 1790 refuting the
XIR177466 Caricature of the clergy at the Constituent Assembly of December 1790 refuting the imposition of the Civil Constitution on the Church, 1790 (pen & ink and wash on paper) by Desrais, Claude Louis (1746-1816); 22x34 cm; Musee de la Ville de Paris, Musee Carnavalet, Paris, France; (add.info.: division of the clergy in response to republican reforms of the church under the Revolution; serment du clerge a la Constituante; ); French, out of copyright
Media ID 12743845
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Anti Clerical Assembly Bellows Bishop Bottom Chamber Divide Dove High Church Loyalty Magic Rebellion Refusal Serpents Speaking In Tongues State Third Estate Tiers Etat Triangle Witchcraft Familiars Revolt Schism
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, titled "Caricature of the clergy at the Constituent Assembly of December 1790 refuting the imposition of the Civil Constitution on the Church" offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in French history. Created by Claude Louis Desrais in pen and ink with wash on paper, this artwork measures 22x34 cm and is housed in the Musee de la Ville de Paris, Musee Carnavalet. Depicting a divided clergy responding to republican reforms during the Revolution, this image captures both political and religious tensions. The scene portrays bishops and priests taking an oath while being surrounded by serpents, animals traditionally associated with magic and witchcraft. Symbolism abounds as various creatures such as birds, snakes, dogs, owls, and even rats populate the composition. The triangular formation of figures suggests hierarchy within the assembly chamber. At its center lies a dove representing peace or divine intervention amidst chaos. Meanwhile, bellows at their bottom symbolize rebellion against ecclesiastical legislation imposed upon them. Through satire and caricature techniques, Desrais conveys anti-clerical sentiments prevalent during that period. This print serves as both historical documentation and social commentary on secularization efforts undertaken by revolutionaries. As we observe this intriguing artwork from Fine Art Finder's collection provided by www. bridgemanimages. com , it invites us to reflect upon how politics can intersect with religion while also reminding us of humanity's enduring struggle for freedom of belief.
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