Twee pianospelende meisjes en een zittend meisje 1834 - 1911

Editor: So, this drawing, “Twee pianospelende meisjes en een zittend meisje,” is by Jozef Israëls, dating from 1834 to 1911. It's a pencil drawing, a pretty simple sketch. It gives me a peek into a private moment. What symbols jump out at you in this seemingly simple domestic scene? Curator: I see a poignant reflection on the passage of time, etched through the image of these young girls. The piano, itself a potent symbol of cultivated leisure and social accomplishment, is here grounding this composition. In terms of symbolic imagery, do you see this shared musical activity hinting at a familial connection, perhaps exploring themes of heritage and artistic legacy? Editor: Absolutely, the shared activity makes a strong case for a family link. And the piano does elevate the image, suggesting a particular upbringing. Looking at the girl standing alone, do you get a sense of disconnect? Curator: It's possible. Perhaps the girl standing serves as a reminder of a third party's perspective on family music-making: not of distance but observation. Notice the bow tied on each of their outfits. Those bows signal the values assigned to childhood at the time. The musical subject of Israëls connects this image, doesn't it, with cultural shifts towards sentimental art. The scene offers insight into family roles and status indicators. What is your impression? Editor: Now I see the standing girl not as distant, but as a conscious observer. Also, the matching bows do so much to tie all of them together as of one status and place. Thanks for helping me dig a little deeper. Curator: My pleasure; looking through symbolic language helps us reveal new insight to social norms through visual works!