At the Restaurant 

Jean-Louis Forain captures a scene with his drypoint etching "At the Restaurant". The image is a window into the social dynamics of late 19th-century Paris. Forain was known for his depictions of Parisian life, often focusing on the city's underbelly and the complex relationships between men and women in a rapidly changing society. Here, a well-dressed man and woman sit at a table, but the distance between them is palpable. The woman's gaze is averted, suggesting a sense of unease or disinterest. In contrast, the man appears self-assured, perhaps even complacent. This piece resonates with the era’s discussions around gender and class, capturing the nuances of power and desire. "At the Restaurant" invites us to consider the unspoken narratives within social interactions, reflecting on the position of women in Parisian society, and the often strained negotiations of identity and intimacy.