Twee drinkende vrouwen 1893 - 1943

This is "Twee drinkende vrouwen", or "Two Drinking Women", a lithograph by Jean-Louis Boussingault. Boussingault came of age as an artist in the early 20th century during a time when traditional artistic and societal norms were being challenged. Here we see two women, one in the foreground wearing a hat, seated at a table with a glass and plate of hors d'oeuvres. Behind her is another woman, slightly out of focus, with her hand on the shoulder of the woman in front. The context feels intimate, perhaps even romantic. Boussingault here develops an alternative narrative of female friendship and affection. There is a quietness to this image, an emotional and personal dimension to the work that speaks to the universal need for connection. Boussingault creates a visual space where female companionship is the focus. In doing so, he invites us to reflect on the importance of women's relationships, both historically and in our own lives.