Home > Arts > Artists > S > Michel Serre
View of the Town Hall (of Marseille) during the plague of 1720, (detail)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
View of the Town Hall (of Marseille) during the plague of 1720, (detail)
JEB4961114 View of the Town Hall (of Marseille) during the plague of 1720, (detail), 1721 (oil on canvas) by Serre, Michel (1658-1753); Palais de Longchamp, Marseille, France; French, out of copyright
Media ID 23344176
© Bridgeman Images
Brat Contagion Disease Epidemia Epidemic Ethnicity Hygiene Illness Marseille Misery Nobles Outbreak Pandemy Pauper Poors Precarious Precariousness Provence Riviera Rhone Mouths 13 Sick Sickness Wealthy Wretch Ethnography Exterior View Inhabitant Jeanbernard Noble Street View
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> S
> Michel Serre
> Europe
> France
> Canton
> Rhone
> Europe
> France
> Marseilles
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Georges de la Tour
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Michel Serre
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a hauntingly detailed view of the Town Hall in Marseille during the devastating plague of 1720. Painted by Michel Serre, this oil on canvas artwork depicts a scene filled with misery and despair. The artist's brushstrokes vividly convey the suffering that plagued both the aristocracy and common people alike. In this particular detail, a horseman can be seen navigating through the crowded streets, symbolizing the desperate struggle for survival amidst an outbreak that claimed countless lives. The painting serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and society's vulnerability to disease. The contrast between wealth and poverty is starkly evident in this image. While nobles are depicted in their opulent attire, surrounded by luxury, paupers huddle together in destitution. This visual representation highlights societal disparities during times of crisis. Amidst this backdrop of death and decay, one cannot help but reflect upon issues such as hygiene and health practices prevalent at that time. The painting also offers insight into historical medical practices and how they were unable to combat such widespread contagion effectively. Serre's masterpiece not only showcases his artistic talent but also serves as an important historical document capturing a dark period in Marseille's history. It reminds us of our collective vulnerability to epidemics while emphasizing the importance of public health measures even today.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.