Bassoon 1830 - 1832

Editor: Here we have Carl August Schaufler's "Bassoon," created between 1830 and 1832, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The use of wood really gives it a classic, almost antiquated, feel. What cultural context would you ascribe to this particular artwork? Curator: It is worth considering this instrument not just as an object of aesthetic beauty, but also as a marker of social status. During the 19th century, musical instruments like this bassoon were increasingly associated with rising middle class participation in orchestras. Owning and mastering such an instrument became a signifier of cultural capital and refinement, and the increasing availability was spurred on by the industrial revolution making manufacture more economical. How does knowing this influence your interpretation of the piece? Editor: That's really insightful. Knowing it signified a growing middle class shifts it from being just a historical artifact to something that speaks of social mobility and aspiration. Does the ornamentation reflect this societal aspiration? Curator: Precisely! The careful wood carving and brass accents would have visually signaled its owner's status, moving the bassoon beyond its function into a realm of display. Its very existence speaks to a changing audience for and access to "high culture," facilitated by nascent industries and new performance venues. Were these instruments purely decorative in any sense, and might this influence their design? Editor: I hadn't considered that element of performativity in instrument design! So much about our perception of art is really just a question of accessibility. Curator: Indeed. And how access evolves dramatically changes art's role in society. Thank you! Editor: And thank you, that’s been truly enlightening!