Les Appas Multiplies 1759 - 1806

Editor: This is "Les Appas Multiplies," made between 1759 and 1806 by Louis Dennel. It's a drawing, engraving and etching currently residing at the Met. The first thing that strikes me is the implied narrative—she’s in a state of undress, but caught mid-action. It feels very staged, with her reflection appearing multiple times. What can you tell me about this work? Curator: Note how Dennel manipulates spatial representation within the frame. We see layered planes: the woman herself, the mirrored image to the left, and the statue glimpsed through the window behind. It yields a sophisticated play between reality and representation. Editor: I see what you mean. It's almost like a hall of mirrors. Curator: Exactly! The hatching and cross-hatching contribute significantly to the visual texture and tonal range, wouldn't you agree? Consider how the light appears to fall across the figure and fabrics. This control of light and shadow amplifies the almost sculptural quality of the central figure. Also consider the semiotic implications. Is the reflection intended to represent a fragment of truth or idealised vanity? Editor: That's interesting. The way the reflections compete for attention changes the impact of the image. The focus becomes less about the figure herself, and more about her image. Is that typical of Baroque art, or something more unique to Dennel? Curator: Within Baroque, theatricality is frequently deployed; however, Dennel's meticulous formalism allows for a different reading. Observe how our gaze is repeatedly forced back to consider the formal aspects, like line, form and composition, thereby preventing the complete consumption of any explicit narrative. It resists becoming mere illustration. Editor: I see, it's more than just the story it tells; it’s also about how the artist creates the image itself. It makes me appreciate the work more, recognizing the intricate layers of form and content. Curator: Precisely. Dennel here isn’t just representing a scene. He's constructing a complex interplay of perception, representation and artistic skill, something easily missed at first glance.