Six Croquis de Personnages 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made this series of sketches, Six Croquis de Personnages, using ink. Steinlen's artwork often captured Parisian street life and social issues, particularly during the Belle Époque. Here, we see six figures who may come from different social backgrounds based on what they wear. The women’s outfits differ significantly in style, from simpler dresses to elegant gowns, while the men appear in suits with one wearing a cap that might indicate a worker's status. This reflects the diverse social classes coexisting in Paris at the time. Steinlen was deeply involved in leftist politics. He was interested in the lives of ordinary people. These sketches are particularly poignant. They give us insight into gender and class dynamics of the time, especially in how people presented themselves to the world. Steinlen’s sensitive portrayal humanizes his subjects, inviting viewers to consider their individual stories within a broader socio-political context.