Soldiers and Cocottes c. 19th century

Editor: This is "Soldiers and Cocottes" by Constantin Guys, a grayscale drawing held at the Harvard Art Museums. It feels like a snapshot of a bustling social scene, capturing the interactions between soldiers and women. How does the historical context shape your interpretation? Curator: It speaks to the societal structure and the public role of art in 19th-century Europe. Guys documented the evolving urban landscape and social interactions, focusing on leisure and entertainment. What does this imagery reveal about the politics of representation at the time? Editor: Maybe it's about the normalization of these interactions, or perhaps a critique? I hadn't considered the political aspect so directly. Thanks! Curator: Indeed! It's a glimpse into a specific time, reflecting power dynamics and social norms.