Menukaart voor het diner bij 'Aanvang Groentijd' van sociëteit Minerva before 1919

Curator: Here we have a dinner menu for ‘Aanvang Groentijd’ at the Minerva Society, dated September 17th, 1913. The menu incorporates print and photography. It feels almost like a historical artifact recovered from a different time, what is your impression? Editor: Well, firstly, it's fascinating to see such an elaborate menu printed so long ago. I'm intrigued by the choice of printing a photo of a building, it adds to the sense of grandeur, maybe even importance. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious details of the food listed? Curator: It is interesting, isn't it? I see more than just a menu, but a glimpse into the social and economic context of the time. Consider the materiality: high-quality print suggesting a wealthy clientele, French dishes reflect sophisticated dining culture. Who was benefiting from this dinner? What class divisions does the opulence reveal? It also challenges assumptions; how does a utilitarian object like this menu gain value beyond its immediate use? Editor: That makes a lot of sense! It’s a document of social stratification, almost. How the wealthy chose to present themselves through, of all things, a dinner menu. Curator: Exactly. Look closer – the "Eetzaal van Societeit Minerva," featured in the photograph and the menu itself becomes part of that building's brand or perhaps a visual marker of social identity for the Minerva society. How did its production reinforce existing hierarchies through the act of dining and, consequently, consumption? Editor: It really changes how I see it. I was focused on the aesthetics, but you’ve shifted the emphasis to the socio-economic implications behind its making and usage. I had no idea how many questions this menu raises! Curator: That’s precisely the point! By examining the materials, process and use of such objects we understand not just art, but broader histories of class and power relations. Editor: So it’s about looking at the social and economic context that influenced and gave meaning to this dinner menu. Fascinating! Thank you for opening my eyes to the materialism aspect in this seemingly mundane artwork.