Gekostumeerd bal, 1834 1834

This print, titled "Gekostumeerd bal", was made in 1834 by an anonymous artist. The composition is dominated by a large crowd rendered with delicate lines and soft colors, evoking a sense of bustling activity and social spectacle. The perspective draws us into the scene, where the figures are arranged in a receding plane, emphasizing the depth and scale of the ballroom. The chandeliers above and the architectural details of the columns and drapery frame the lively gathering, suggesting the opulence and order of the event. The print, with its structured composition and attention to detail, functions as a sign. It represents not just a visual depiction of a costumed ball but also the codes of social behavior and aesthetic values of its time. The anonymous artist uses the structure of the ballroom to highlight the structured nature of society itself, offering a glimpse into a world of spectacle and social performance.