Sketchbook c. 1885

This sketchbook was created by Henry Somm in France during the late 19th century. The period was marked by significant social changes, including the rise of the bourgeoisie and evolving gender roles reflected in art and literature. Somm’s sketches offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of Parisians. The loose, informal style captures fleeting moments and the anonymity of modern urban life. The figures, particularly the women in their hats and the men with their children, reflect the emerging middle class. Somm’s focus on fashion and leisure activities speaks to the era’s changing social dynamics. The sketches lack the polish of formal portraits, suggesting a more intimate, personal vision. This approach challenges traditional artistic conventions, inviting viewers to consider the individual stories behind these anonymous figures. The sketchbook reminds us of the importance of capturing the transient, the ordinary, and the beauty of the unposed moment.