Twee wandelende vrouwen op straat 1902

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made this print of two women walking in an urban setting. It offers a glimpse into the social fabric of its time. The location is likely Paris, a place Steinlen knew well. It was a period of significant social change, with the rise of the bourgeoisie and shifting gender roles. How does Steinlen portray these women? Are they part of the leisure class, or are they workers? Their clothing and posture might provide clues. Note the presence of other figures in the background. What does their presence suggest about the social environment of the time? To understand this print fully, one could research the history of fashion, urban development, and the changing roles of women in late 19th-century Paris. Historical societies, archives, and libraries can provide invaluable resources for this kind of research. By examining this print within its specific social and institutional context, we can gain a deeper appreciation of its meaning and significance.