Rademaker's "Meco" als ontbijt 1906 - 1945

Editor: Here we have a work called "Rademaker's 'Meco' als ontbijt," an ink drawing on paper, placing its creation somewhere between 1906 and 1945. The style and framing evoke Art Nouveau advertisements, which I find fascinating! What societal narrative do you see being woven here? Curator: An interesting question. Immediately, I consider the commercial context. Rademaker's "Meco" was presumably the advertised product, likely a breakfast food. The elegant couple lounging in what appears to be bedclothes certainly presents a leisurely, bourgeois lifestyle. How does this imagery contribute to the public perception, or perhaps even aspiration, of breakfast habits at the time? Editor: I hadn't thought of that, that breakfast could even be perceived differently depending on societal standing. The couple looks carefree, definitely conveying a sense of ease, even luxury. How much did the rise of advertising impact visual arts and our daily rituals like breakfast? Curator: Massively. Consider the burgeoning middle class, increased consumerism, and print culture. Advertising, like this drawing, capitalized on anxieties and desires, framing commodities like "Meco" as keys to social mobility or maintaining status. What values are being promoted beyond simple nutrition? Decadence and leisure for example... Editor: So, beyond just a simple drawing, it reflects the values the manufacturers wanted to promote? In a way it shaped peoples views of breakfast. That's really fascinating! Thank you, this has really opened my eyes to viewing advertising with so much greater understanding and socio-historical background! Curator: Indeed. We've only scratched the surface. Analyzing art as a reflection of its cultural and commercial landscape allows us to understand the interplay between art, industry, and public life. This has highlighted that in this case, even an ad can show an incredible amount.