Twee inwoners van Madrid, 1726 1726

Aldert Meyer created this etching titled "Two Residents of Madrid" in 1726. It provides a glimpse into the lives of the Spanish elite during the early 18th century. Meyer captures a man and woman in elaborate dress against the backdrop of Madrid. But the image is more than just a depiction of local fashion; it speaks volumes about social status and gender roles. Notice the woman, adorned in a veil and holding a fan, symbols of modesty and decorum, while the man is equipped with a sword, indicative of status. The contrast underscores the gendered expectations of the time. Meyer offers us a window into the lives of Madrid's privileged class. But through an examination of the subjects' attire and symbolic props, the artwork also prompts us to reflect on the broader themes of gender, identity, and power dynamics in 18th-century Spanish society.