Groep jongemannen aan de ontbijttafel 1836 - 1841

Charles George Lewis created this aquatint titled "The Melton Breakfast" in the first half of the 19th century. It depicts a group of young men, presumably members of the British upper class, gathered for breakfast. The scene provides a window into the social rituals and values of the British elite. Their distinctive red hunting coats indicate their association with fox hunting, a popular pastime among the aristocracy that served as both a form of recreation and a symbol of social status. The opulent setting, complete with fine art and elegant furnishings, reinforces the sense of privilege and exclusivity associated with this social class. Through careful attention to visual details and cultural references, we can gain insights into the social and political dynamics of 19th-century Britain. By consulting historical documents, social commentaries, and other primary sources, we can further enrich our understanding of the artwork and its significance within its cultural and institutional context.