After Dinner 1829

Editor: So, this is "After Dinner" by Henri Bonaventure Monnier, held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a drawing, and the scene feels very intimate. What are your first impressions, looking at it? Curator: Well, the title "After Dinner" and the inscription below tells us about the world that the artist depicts. Can you make out what the inscription says? Editor: It looks like "Intimité s’établit entre les convives, bons mots et cailles." Curator: Exactly. It shows how the drawing is meant as social commentary on the intimacy established between guests after a nice meal. Editor: That's fascinating! So it is not just a simple depiction but a reflection on social dynamics? Curator: Precisely. It's about observing and commenting on the societal rituals around dining and socializing. Editor: I see it now! Thanks for sharing your insights. Curator: My pleasure. It’s always rewarding to consider art within its social context.