Venster met gordijnen c. 1885 - 1895

Editor: This watercolor and print drawing titled "Venster met gordijnen," or "Window with Curtains," dates from around 1885 to 1895 and is by Léon Laroche. The piece presents an interior view of an armchair looking out to a seascape through decorative curtains. I find it interesting how much emphasis is given to interior decor, which feels very theatrical. What's your interpretation of this work? Curator: The focus on interior decor during this period, particularly within the context of Romanticism, often spoke volumes about social aspirations and cultural identity. These draperies and the armchair, while seemingly benign, were markers of class and taste. Given that this piece includes fishing equipment as part of the design, I wonder about its relationship to maritime history, and perhaps even colonial narratives of resource extraction? What statement might the artist be making by incorporating fishing gear into this lavish setting? Editor: That’s a thought-provoking perspective. I hadn’t considered the fishing gear as potentially alluding to broader socio-economic and power structures, rather I was simply thinking about it in relation to maritime leisure. Curator: The 'leisure' aspect itself is key here. Whose leisure is being represented, and at what cost? This piece gives us insight into the culture of the decorative arts and can be re-examined as a visualization of that era's values. Do you think there are any visible connections to social class beyond just “taste?” Editor: Thinking about it now, I see how the over-the-top theatrical display speaks to privilege. Thanks for sharing your expertise. Curator: Of course. Recontextualizing pieces allows them to open to many views. I now wonder about the identity of the inhabitant as displayed in this design and what can be said about their values based on the choices displayed.