Twee meisjes in klassieke dracht 1815

Editor: Here we have "Two Girls in Classical Dress," a drawing in ink on paper by Catharina Kemper, created around 1815. The delicate lines give it a somewhat fragile, ephemeral feeling. What do you make of it? Curator: It's interesting to see Neoclassicism manifested in a drawing, especially one focused on female friendship. The idealized forms, the classical garb – these were meant to evoke a specific vision of the past, one tied to civic virtue and order, largely dictated by male artists and patrons. But consider, who was Kemper drawing for? A different audience might receive this artwork. Editor: I see your point. It almost feels like she’s taking these classical ideals and imbuing them with a sense of intimacy and maybe even...domesticity? Was there an appetite at the time for artworks that reflected less grandeur? Curator: Absolutely! The rise of the bourgeoisie created a market for art that resonated with their values. Consider also the political context: Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo that very year signalled changes. Even in the wake of war and political restructuring there’s an undeniable sentiment of hope for a different order. But consider how this sentiment and "hope" exclude the feminine sphere. Editor: That is such a compelling interpretation, it hadn’t occurred to me! So much more to it than just two pretty faces! Curator: It is, after all, never just *two pretty faces.* The power dynamics, the societal influences… that's where the story truly lies. Editor: Well, I'll certainly keep all of that in mind next time I see a seemingly straightforward portrait. Thanks! Curator: Likewise, it is always rewarding to examine pieces like this in a new context.