Twee modieuze ruiters wedden met elkaar 1841

Editor: Here we have "Two Fashionable Riders Making a Bet" by Paul Gavarni, dating to 1841. It's a lithograph print made with pen, ink, and graphite, currently residing at the Rijksmuseum. It strikes me as being rather cheeky; I’m curious to know what someone more learned would take from this. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Ah, yes, Gavarni! He always has a playful air. This particular piece, with its wobbly lines and knowing glance, gives me a sense of Parisian theatre, if you will. I see a slice of backstage life, where the real drama is brewing, away from the bright lights. I see it as more than just a simple bet, more a stage for negotiating power and flaunting social currency. Editor: Social currency? Curator: Absolutely! Look at the exaggerated styles, the slightly-too-dramatic poses. It’s as if they’re characters playing a role even amongst themselves. The romantic period was big on the individual and here we see two distinct ones! Do you get the feeling these men are aware of being seen? I certainly do! Editor: That makes so much sense. They *are* performing, even for each other. And you can tell by their very caricatured expressions too. Curator: Exactly! Each wrinkle and the slant of a hat are chosen like a brushstroke to deepen their character. Do you also notice that the curtains behind them further amplify the effect? I love the thought of who they really are beneath the show! Editor: I really like what you brought to my attention, it certainly enlivened the characters! Curator: Me too. These works keep you guessing.