Guitar player 1755 - 1757

Jean-Baptiste Greuze painted ‘Guitar Player’ sometime in the 1700s. Greuze was a French painter known for his sentimental genre scenes. What might at first appear to be a simple portrait of a man with a guitar quickly opens up towards deeper social dynamics, and the painting provides a glimpse into the intersection of class and artistic expression during the 18th century. The sitter’s gaze suggests a complex story, reflecting the cultural expectations of masculinity and artistry during the Enlightenment, while his clothes suggest a middle class upbringing. The guitar, a symbol of leisure and refinement, contrasts with the man's somewhat disheveled appearance. What does it mean for a man to embrace artistic pursuits? Does it elevate his status or feminize him in a society that values rigid gender roles? Greuze’s painting invites us to consider the nuances of identity and representation. It’s a reflection of personal circumstances and broader societal trends, revealing the tensions inherent in the pursuit of art and self-expression.