Echtpaar wandelt buiten de stad 1843

Paul Gavarni made this print of a couple outside the city in the mid-19th century. The clothing of the couple suggests members of the Parisian Bourgeoisie. The man carries a walking stick, hinting at leisurely walks and his economic status. Gavarni was a keen observer of Parisian life, and his works offer insights into the social dynamics of his time. This print appears in a series titled “Impressions de Ménage” which loosely translates as Impressions of Household. It hints at the cultural norms and expectations surrounding marriage and domestic life during this period in France. To better understand Gavarni’s work, one might turn to sources such as newspapers and journals of the day to find more social context. The print invites us to reflect on how social norms shape our understanding of relationships. By studying the artwork alongside historical materials, we can gain a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs of 19th-century French society.