Distinguished Amateurs no. II: The Art Critic 1880

Editor: This is "Distinguished Amateurs no. II: The Art Critic," an etching and pencil drawing by George Du Maurier from 1880. It's really intriguing; the scene seems to capture a very specific, perhaps satirical, slice of Victorian society observing art. What jumps out at you when you look at this piece? Curator: Ah, yes, Du Maurier. I see a snapshot of the art world then—folks trying their darnedest to look like they *get* it, don't they? The drawing itself is delicate, almost whisper-thin, wouldn’t you agree? Makes you feel as though you're eavesdropping. Notice the body language; stiff backs, arms crossed, little adjustments of apparel as if *being* there, viewing, is performing the right kind of role. Does it remind you of anywhere you've been recently? Editor: It does, actually! Now that you mention it, it's quite a performance. It's almost theatrical in the way everyone is posed, but then it also feels like genuine observation. What's with the title, though? "Distinguished Amateurs"? Is he suggesting they aren't very good at being... amateurs? Curator: Precisely! He's gently ribbing the *idea* of taste, you know? In this era, art and social standing went hand in hand, whether they fully comprehended art or not. The "amateur" art critic was an emerging force in the art ecosystem, wielding significant power! So, he's not necessarily saying they are unskilled, as the role they play has impact. Did you notice how he captures that sense of unease and striving in each of them? It is as delicious as the freshest croissant! Editor: So, it's about social commentary masked as a drawing! It also helps us understand that critics have always shaped how we look at art, which is pretty cool to know. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! Every work like this whispers its history. Now you know a little secret to share, and better appreciate a work's story next time, I feel.