Lint van blauw gaas c. 1900 - 1915

This roll of blue gauze ribbon was made by Gustav Schnitzler, though we don’t know when. It is an item from the collection of the Rijksmuseum. In thinking about this object, we might consider how institutions like museums shape our understanding of art. While the ribbon itself may seem like a simple object, its presence in a museum elevates it, inviting us to consider its historical and cultural significance. What was this ribbon used for? Who made it, and under what conditions? To answer these questions, we could consult historical records, textile manufacturing archives, and social histories of fashion and adornment in the Netherlands. We might learn about the role of textiles in Dutch society, the labor practices of the time, and the cultural meanings associated with color and adornment. By examining this object through a social and institutional lens, we can gain a deeper appreciation for its complexity and its connection to the wider world.