Banquet Scene c. 16th century

Curator: This is a drawing called "Banquet Scene," attributed to Willem Willemsz. Thybaut. It's about 31 by 20 centimeters, and it resides here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels so…staged. Like everyone's posing, even while they're supposedly feasting. The monochromatic tones add a certain solemnity, don't they? Curator: Absolutely. The social dynamics are fascinating here. The composition emphasizes a clear hierarchy, from the musicians on the balcony to the attendees at the table. It hints at societal structures of the time. Editor: And that bird being presented! Is it dinner or a symbolic gesture? It seems so deliberately placed, it must mean something! I find the scale a little disorienting. It looks to be ancient, however the details of the figures and the architecture are so clean, crisp. Curator: Well, that is due to the technique! The artist used pen and brown ink with gray wash. So, the detail is there. Perhaps the bird is a symbol of status and prosperity, flaunted during such an occasion. Editor: Right, like saying, "Look at what we have!" I see it now. It is a drawing about status, wealth, and power, a bit like a modern-day influencer post. Curator: Perhaps not that different! These scenes show how power likes to stage itself for an audience, even centuries ago. Editor: Exactly. It is timeless and fascinating.