Two Women Talking 1590 - 1625

Hans Weiner created this drawing of two women with pen and brown ink in Germany, around the turn of the 17th century. The setting appears to be a private chamber, with musicians visible through the doorway, though the subject of conversation between the two women is unknown. Weiner’s emphasis on interior spaces and small gatherings reflects the culture of the Holy Roman Empire. It was then a patchwork of independent states, each with its own local artistic traditions. The patronage of art shifted from the church to the private households of the rising merchant class, who wanted art to reflect their own values and social status. This drawing provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of the privileged class. A look at the clothing and furnishings depicted here alongside other images and archival documents from the period reveals the customs and values of the people for whom Weiner created it.