Aantekening betreffende Teutwart Schmitson after 1840

This undated document, penned by an unknown hand, gives us insight into the art market of its time. It's a note describing an oil painting by a certain ‘T. Schmitzon’, six and a half feet long by five feet high, depicting, quote, “bad weather.” What’s most revealing are the two prices listed: 3000 francs for the amateur and 2400 for the art dealer. This simple pricing difference speaks volumes about the complex social dynamics at play in the art world. The amateur, driven by personal taste, is willing to pay more. The dealer, seeking profit, expects a discount. This document offers a glimpse into the bargaining and negotiations behind the scenes, subtly critiquing the commodification of art itself. By researching period account books, dealer correspondence, and exhibition records, we can uncover more about the relationship between artists, dealers, and collectors and fully contextualize artworks within their historical moment.