Exuditio Musica, Air chanté par madame Colin (dagboek, 1 november) 1805 - 1808

Christiaan Andriessen created this watercolor titled "Exuditio Musica, Air chanté par madame Colin" in the early 19th century. Andriessen lived through a period of immense social change, including the rise and fall of Napoleon, the growth of industrialization, and burgeoning revolutionary sentiments throughout Europe. Here, we witness a performance, likely an opera or a concert, attended by a diverse audience, carefully arranged in a way that reflects the rigid social hierarchies of the time. Gender and class distinctions are evident, with men occupying the foreground while women are relegated to the balconies, their presence more ornamental than participatory. The architectural grandeur of the hall—with its towering columns and ornate chandelier—serves not only as a setting for artistic expression but also as a symbol of power and wealth. Andriessen captures a moment where the delicate beauty of Madame Colin's voice momentarily transcends the societal constraints, hinting at the possibility of a shared emotional experience. While the artwork upholds traditional representations of gender and class, it subtly alludes to the emotional depth that art can evoke, bridging the gap between the performers and audience.