At the Stock Exchange c. 1900

Jean-Louis Forain's drawing, titled 'At the Stock Exchange,' captures a scene rife with the anxieties of financial speculation. We see figures in top hats, their faces obscured by shadow or gesture, as they engage in hushed conversations. These downcast faces remind us of the masks of Greek tragedy, embodiments of suffering and despair. This motif has resurfaced throughout history, from medieval depictions of hell to the works of Goya, each reflecting moments of intense collective anguish. Here, it speaks to the emotional turmoil inherent in the pursuit of wealth. The act of covering one's face, whether in shame or secrecy, appears across cultures, from ancient rituals to modern-day political demonstrations. It signifies a primal response to fear and uncertainty, a desire to conceal oneself from the gaze of judgement or misfortune. Forain’s sketch taps into these deep-seated anxieties, reminding us that the pursuit of fortune is often intertwined with the risk of ruin. These figures are more than just individuals; they are symbols of the human condition, forever caught in the cyclical drama of hope and despair.