"Sangeren" 1778 - 1780

Editor: This is "Sangeren," or "The Singer," an engraving by Georg Christian Schule, created around 1778-1780. The character is belting out a tune with intense enthusiasm, maybe too intense. It's… comical, almost like a stage performance. What stands out to you the most? Curator: Well, immediately I'm drawn to the flamboyant exaggeration of everything. Look at the way Schule renders the figure—all frantic energy! That gaping mouth, those popping eyes… He's not just singing; he's *performing* for his very life, and that's the crux of caricature, isn’t it? It's poking fun, exaggerating characteristics to expose a truth, however silly or serious that may be. And this was created in the late 1770's. Rococo art, popular at the time, often aimed for light-heartedness and ornamentation, though maybe not *this* much ornamentation. What do you think this image satirizes about society or performing at that time? Editor: I hadn't considered the satire! The sword and hat seem out of place; perhaps it’s a comment on status? Or maybe performers who were trying too hard to seem important? Curator: Exactly! Or maybe the contrast of that outfit with the apparent lack of singing skill. Is this person a talented artist, or a total fraud? Schule is leaving the interpretation up to us. The point isn't the likeness, but the essence of what the singer *represents*, don’t you think? A very personal interpretation is key in satirical work. Editor: Definitely! I see it now. So, looking closer at the image has taught me not to take it literally; to look past the initial, over-the-top impression to discover deeper, less obvious ideas about that time. Curator: Precisely. It's all about discovering a story within a story, and reflecting on the enduring relevance of satire. Hopefully, we have opened people’s eyes to that.