Los deberes 1898

Curator: Carl Larsson’s 1898 watercolor titled "Los deberes," which translates to "The Duties," presents an intimate look at domestic life. The muted colors and soft lighting create a very calm atmosphere. Editor: My first impression is that it feels intensely staged. The composition and almost theatrical lighting direct your gaze, but not to a moment that feels naturally captured. It's like observing a memory carefully constructed and carefully lit. Curator: I find it interesting you use the word staged because Larsson's domestic scenes like this one contributed to a particular image of Swedish identity, of an ideal family life, that became influential during that time. The house itself became almost a symbol of national pride. Editor: Absolutely. The domestic space itself is performing a duty, presenting an idealized version of comfort and propriety. Notice how the artist positions a neatly arranged shelf with china—these are the archetypes of home, a sense of collected warmth. What are they really doing in the painting, what kind of work? Curator: The girl seems engrossed in a book or papers. The boy is equally studious, leaning in towards the light. It represents the importance of education and cultivation within the home. Although, some may argue that he might be positioned a bit too far away from the lamp, hinting at the burdens and difficulties of such imposed obligations. Editor: Good point. He’s placed in shadow—almost swallowed up by the homework itself. The red geranium casts such a strong bloom, I would imagine that it represents a sort of family hearth and passion against such a stifled backdrop, like he may want to join such a natural vitality. Curator: That makes me consider what the work suggests about gender roles too, particularly within bourgeois Scandinavian households. There’s clearly an emphasis here on portraying them fulfilling gendered roles within the education system. Editor: I agree. Overall, though, what sticks with me is this potent contrast between the vibrant flower on the table and the subdued labor they have to engage with. Curator: Indeed. It makes one contemplate the subtle messages being conveyed within these apparently simple genre scenes, when viewed through the historical lens of family life.