Staande en zittende vrouw gekleed in een manteau 1683 - 1733

Curator: Looking at this print, "Standing and Seated Woman Dressed in a Manteau," made between 1683 and 1733 by Bernard Picart, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. It's a lovely peek into fashion and social life of the era, isn't it? Editor: It feels intimate. As though we're intruding on a private moment. The detail in the engraving is exquisite—all those ruffles, the lace...it’s a real textural feast. What's a "manteau" anyway? Curator: It was a loose, informal gown that became popular at the end of the 17th century. Less restrictive than previous formal wear, signalling changing times in aristocratic social circles. Notice the one woman stands, holding what appears to be a fan or perhaps rolled sheet music, while the other sits and reads from a large book of music, presumably. Editor: The standing figure's eyes really capture my attention. They suggest some narrative is taking place or just about to unfold, no? It's like I want to reach out and stop her. Is there about to be a grand reveal? A confession? Curator: Perhaps a little of both. These kind of prints depicting daily life – known as genre painting, sometimes bleed into other types, like portraiture or historical scenes. So while seeming simple, it might convey complex social cues about class, gender, leisure. Engravings made art and information far more accessible. Editor: Definitely accessible and so incredibly stylish! And look how controlled the lines are! I feel as though the print emanates such an elegance. The baroque really shines through with such confidence. It has the same essence of control. What an accomplishment that the clothes do not weigh the women down and allow them to become more intimate and personable to us in modern times! It's a gorgeous reminder of those simple daily scenes, of music, and the fine detail of existence, too often missed. Curator: Exactly! A fascinating sliver of the past that continues to speak across centuries. It definitely offers up some wonderful insights. Editor: Agreed. The emotional resonance is uncanny, I must agree. Thank you!