Musical Trophy 19th century

Charles Monblond created this drawing, "Musical Trophy," sometime in the 19th century. The drawing depicts an arrangement of musical instruments, scores, and laurel wreaths on a blue background. Monblond created this drawing during a time of significant social change, as Europe was experiencing the rise of the middle class and the growth of nationalism. The musical trophy likely symbolized the cultural achievements of this new social order. Instruments signify harmony and order. The laurel wreath symbolizes victory and triumph. However, it is important to acknowledge that the celebration of musical achievement can be exclusive, particularly in the 19th century. Musical education and performance were often limited to the upper classes. The imagery carries with it the politics of class and cultural capital. What, then, could this drawing tell us about Monblond's views on class and access to the arts? It invites us to consider the complex relationship between music, identity, and power.