Interieur met elegant gezelschap 1878 - 1879

Jean-Antoine-Valentin Foulquier created this print, "Interieur met elegant gezelschap", sometime in the 19th century. Foulquier lived in a time of significant social change. The French Revolution, with its emphasis on liberty, equality, and fraternity, had a profound impact on French society and art. Here, we see a snapshot of what appears to be upper-class society. The figures, dressed in elaborate costumes, stand in a formal interior, possibly engaged in conversation or a social gathering. The elegance of their attire speaks to the privilege and status associated with wealth and nobility. What is particularly interesting about this piece is how the women are depicted: Their presentation seems almost theatrical. How might our understanding of gender roles during the 19th century influence our reading of this scene? Do you see them as performing a role? Or, might they actually be in control? This artwork may have originally served as a way to maintain traditional representations, but now offers alternative narratives through which to engage with our history.