In het zwart geklede vrouw, leunend tegen muur 1908 - 1911

Curator: Let’s delve into this intriguing print, created by Marcel Roux between 1908 and 1911. The title translates to "Woman Dressed in Black, Leaning Against a Wall". What’s your first take on this piece? Editor: Ooh, mysterious! She looks like she's guarding a secret, doesn't she? There's a touch of old-world drama in the heavy shadows, almost like a film noir vibe, only set a century earlier. Curator: Indeed. This work operates within the Impressionist style, and notably makes use of the technique of engraving. Through these dark, deeply etched lines, we are asked to consider the social role of women in that period and the weight of societal expectations. The darkness feels symbolic. Editor: Absolutely, and those details, the dress practically swallowing her… But her face, those eyes! There's such defiance there. Like she knows more than she’s letting on, and maybe she’s tired of playing by the rules. I’m curious about her world, her story! Did he know her? Curator: That's a brilliant observation. This work sits at the intersection of portraiture and historical painting. Through rigorous mark making, Marcel Roux may be asking viewers to question dominant historical narratives. Perhaps Roux met her; what does it mean that she's actively pushing back on those norms? Editor: Hmm, yeah I see what you mean. Maybe that somber, almost oppressive background actually amplifies her presence, that quiet resistance? The setting could represent something she's pushing back against! Curator: Precisely. By studying visual codes prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, we are able to have conversations about identity, performance, and resistance. Roux pushes viewers to be part of these cultural debates. Editor: Well, he certainly piqued my curiosity! I want to know everything about this woman now. Makes me wonder about all the untold stories hidden in plain sight. Curator: It's pieces like this that bridge the past and the present, fostering meaningful discussions around intersectional narratives. Thank you, that’s really illuminated my understanding as well.