After The Ball 1877

Julius Leblanc Stewart painted this artwork called "After The Ball" using oil on canvas. Stewart’s process is particularly evident in the textures and details of the woman’s elaborate gown. Think about the materiality of the dress itself. The fabrics, the lace, and the intricate embellishments speak to a culture of high fashion and conspicuous consumption. The brushstrokes capture the sheen of the satin, the delicate frills of the lace, and the weight of the layered textiles, giving a sense of how it was made and the great skill of the dressmaker involved. Considering the social context, this is a work about labor, though it's hidden behind glamour. While the woman luxuriates, the creation of her dress relied on extensive work from seamstresses and textile workers. Looking closely at materials, making, and context reveals hidden dimensions, blurring the boundaries between art, craft, and social commentary.