Gemaskerd bal 1803

"Gemaskerd Bal" (Masked Ball), an 1803 etching by Lambertus Antonius Claessens, depicts a lively scene of masked figures at a masquerade ball. The work, measuring just 118 mm in height and 75 mm in width, is a testament to the popularity of such events in 19th-century Dutch society. Claessens captures the anonymity and playful nature of the gathering, with each figure obscured by their mask and costume. The artist's meticulous detailing of the figures' elaborate attire and the crowded interior setting creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, inviting viewers to imagine themselves among the revelers. This small-scale work is a valuable glimpse into the social life of the period and remains a popular example of Claessens's skill in etching.