Veiling van munten en penningen Possibly 1905

This anonymous print shows a coin auction, and offers us a glimpse into the social world of early 20th-century France. Note the men, dressed in their dark suits and ties, surrounding the auctioneer, while the women are seated behind, their elaborate hats speaking to the strict social codes of the era. Published alongside the caption: "We are putting up for sale a fifty-centime piece from the Jean Lorrain collection" we can imagine the artist commenting on the role of wealth and exclusivity within artistic and collecting circles. The French writer Jean Lorrain’s decadent lifestyle was well-known, and his collections of art and antiques, often acquired through dubious means, were a reflection of his flamboyant personality. The artist captures a world where social class, gender, and wealth intersect, inviting us to consider who has access to art and luxury. It invites us to reflect on the value we place on objects and the stories they tell about ourselves and society.