Elevation of an interior with a chimneypiece surmounted by a mirror and a second floor balcony 1830 - 1897

Jules-Edmond-Charles Lachaise created this watercolor and graphite elevation of an interior, sometime in the 20th century. Born in France in 1897, Lachaise belonged to a generation shaped by significant social and political upheaval following both World Wars. In this work, Lachaise offers us a glimpse into a domestic space defined by opulence. The grand chimneypiece, surmounted by an ornate mirror, creates an atmosphere of wealth and luxury. The balcony above hints at social hierarchies, suggesting the presence of privileged occupants who could survey the space from above. Yet, the artwork also evokes a sense of theatricality and performance. The draped curtains in the balcony suggest a stage, implying that domestic life itself is a kind of performance, carefully constructed and presented. How do we reconcile the allure of such a luxurious space with the underlying social dynamics it represents? As you reflect on Lachaise's creation, consider the ways in which our personal spaces reflect broader societal issues and power dynamics.