Cello Sonata 1880 - 1924

Ernst Oppler made this etching, entitled Cello Sonata, in Germany at the beginning of the 20th century. Here, the rising urban middle classes are enjoying a period of relative peace and economic prosperity. The scene offers us an intimate glimpse into the cultural life of the bourgeoisie. Chamber music was a popular form of entertainment in private homes, often involving family members and friends. In this image, we see the musicians framed by paintings and domestic objects: these are markers of their status, their aspirations to culture, and their sense of themselves as part of a cultured nation. To understand this work better, we could investigate the musical tastes of the German middle classes at the time and how they reflected their social values. By exploring archival resources, letters, diaries, and concert programs, we can deepen our appreciation of how cultural activities were embedded in the fabric of everyday life.