Masks and faces: Women afraid of a glass of wine... 1857 - 1858

Paul Gavarni produced this graphite drawing, titled "Masks and faces: Women afraid of a glass of wine...", in nineteenth-century France. The drawing offers a window into the social anxieties and moral complexities of Parisian society. It presents us with a woman in what appears to be domestic clothing with a concerned expression. Gavarni's image creates meaning through its subtle but pointed commentary on the social structures of his time. The title indicates the social and cultural stigmas around women drinking alcohol, hinting at the restrictions placed on women's behavior and their perceived vulnerability to societal judgment. The role of the historian is crucial in unpacking such images, as we must consider the historical context, societal norms, and institutional forces at play in order to fully understand the artwork's message. By delving into period sources we reveal the nuanced layers of meaning embedded within it.