Gemaskerde vrouw fluistert in het oor van haar chaperon 1843

Paul Gavarni created this print of a masked woman whispering to her chaperone, using lithography, in nineteenth-century France. Set during Carnival in Paris, the image offers a glimpse into the intricate social codes of the time. Gavarni was known for his acute observations of Parisian life and he often depicted the city's diverse social classes and cultural practices. Here, the mask worn by the woman becomes a symbol of freedom and anonymity, allowing her to engage in clandestine flirtations. The presence of a chaperone highlights the strict social conventions governing interactions between men and women in 19th century France. Historians might consult periodicals from the time to better understand the social context and satirical intention of Gavarni’s print. Ultimately, this artwork serves as a reminder that the meaning of art is deeply rooted in the social and institutional context in which it was created.