Box Office Possibly 1862 - 1920

Charles Maurand created this print called “Box Office”. While the date of its creation is unknown, we can assume that it was created at a time of increasing social stratification, based on the composition of the image itself. Note the variety in the crowd. The artist makes sure to include enough figures to reveal both the distinctions between the different members of the audience, while also including the overall mood of anticipation and excitement. Those in top hats stand next to those in bonnets and caps. It is difficult not to see how access to culture is already becoming a question of class. What stories will be told inside, and who will get to hear them? Who gets access to the imaginative space of the theater, and who is excluded? How does this shape one’s identity and worldview? This image leaves us with these questions.