Man en vrouw houden elkaars hand vast in de buitenlucht 1851 - 1865

Editor: Here we have an engraving called "Man en vrouw houden elkaars hand vast in de buitenlucht," or "Man and woman holding hands in the open air," created between 1851 and 1865 by Célestin Nanteuil. I immediately get this romantic, melancholic vibe from the print. What catches your eye? Curator: Oh, this piece sings of a love both grand and grounded! What do I see? I see whispered promises under a sky that’s just seen a storm pass. See how they’re holding hands? Not just a grasp, it's a story, isn't it? The distant castle whispers tales of bygone eras, almost like it is overseeing the present state of affairs. Doesn't it just evoke this overwhelming desire for something deeply yearned? Editor: Absolutely! I noticed the castle too. Do you think it’s important to understanding their relationship? Curator: I do. The castle, with its slightly intimidating gothic silhouette, adds a layer of depth to the narrative, suggesting there is a grand story to discover behind their present meeting. Look at their clothing—slightly theatrical, wouldn't you agree? It hints at perhaps a staged meeting or stolen encounter? It seems almost staged! The setting itself adds an unreal layer to their meeting. It does prompt reflection about performativity, about seeing and being seen... Editor: The clothes do stand out! That theatrical aspect didn't occur to me before. So, it adds an intentional flair of emotion or perhaps, drama? Curator: Exactly. Like love itself, dramatic! I've never encountered anyone hold hands that intentionally and be like "It's only Platonic, bestie." And perhaps Nanteuil’s touch—the slight uncertainty, or the deliberate romantic styling—is how we come to really see love in all its forms. Editor: I'm now looking at their embrace, and I appreciate what their hand-holding suggests. Curator: It just holds… volumes, darling. Volumes! It's truly where the eye meets the heart, wouldn't you agree?