Trijn Altijddorst, Geb: Koffijlief. / Hoofdvrouw van het koffijzusters gezelschap. / Hans Altyddorst. / Hoofdman van het bierdrinkers gezelschap 1836 - 1849

Editor: Here we have a print made between 1836 and 1849 by Monogrammist B, titled “Trijn Altijddorst, Geb: Koffijlief. / Hoofdvrouw van het koffijzusters gezelschap. / Hans Altyddorst. / Hoofdman van het bierdrinkers gezelschap.” It feels very satirical, almost comically contrasting these two figures, a woman and a man. How do you interpret this work, especially considering the emphasis on 'coffee-lovers' and 'beer-drinkers?' Curator: The print seems to delve into societal stereotypes, doesn't it? Note how the "Hoofdvrouw" (Head woman) is paired with symbols of domesticity – the table set for tea, the cat. Coffee, in this context, might symbolize feminine virtue, moderation. But look at her male counterpart. He's literally overflowing with symbols of excess – the overflowing beer stein, the belly straining against his waistcoat. These aren't just depictions of individuals; they're visual shorthands for broader cultural anxieties about gender roles and consumption. Editor: So you are suggesting that there are culturally established beliefs related to beverages that are attached to individuals? Are you referring to some cultural symbolism here? Curator: Precisely. The imagery associated with these figures—the objects surrounding them, their postures, their expressions—these are not neutral details. They tap into a rich vein of cultural associations and prejudices. Consider the dogs that appear alongside them - why those specific animals, positioned in that way? It contributes to a larger commentary about order, appetite, and societal expectation, do you think? Editor: That's a fascinating connection! The symbols around them really seem like vessels filled with cultural ideas. Curator: And the contrast, that's key, I think! These beverages act as stand-ins for gendered roles. Now that we've considered that, I wonder about modern coffee and beer adverts… Editor: Wow, I never thought a simple print could hold so many layers of meaning. It has made me reflect a lot on our daily intake. Thank you for shining light on them!