Babette Tapecierer 1873 - 1876

Anton Romako painted "Babette Tapecierer" using oil on canvas. The traditional medium allows for an opulent portrayal of Babette, who seems to be a woman of high status. Yet the painting’s status as fine art contrasts with its subject, who is described as a ‘Tapecierer’ – an upholsterer. It’s an interesting position to be in, for her work is usually associated with craft rather than art. Look closely at the fabrics in the painting, her lace shawl and the fan. Notice how carefully Romako has attended to their textures and patterns, even more so than her face. The painting process imitates the craft process of the upholsterer, building up layer upon layer to create a rich surface. The painting acknowledges the artistic merit in everyday craftsmanship. It challenges us to question traditional notions of artistic labor, and the value we ascribe to different forms of making.