De Bazar, 1887, Nr. 4, Pl. 673 1887

Editor: So, here we have "De Bazar, 1887, Nr. 4, Pl. 673," a print from 1887. It depicts two women in elaborate dresses; one looks very serious, and the other a little aloof. There’s an interesting sense of… removed observation, you know? What do you make of this work? Curator: Oh, I love this! It whispers tales of bygone days. It's an impressionistic peek into the stylish world of 1887! Those dresses are masterpieces of construction, right? I see delicate power, don’t you? Those slightly corseted shapes speak of a particular idea about the feminine form that both constrained and emphasized. How do you feel about their relationship to one another in the print? Editor: I suppose I see your point; these dresses do look complicated! It hadn’t occurred to me that they might reveal how women thought about themselves. In regards to your question, I can’t seem to shake the feeling that they seem almost unaware of each other. I suppose that suggests to me how individualized people are regardless of setting. Curator: Ah, a keen observation! Or perhaps they are posing in the artist's gaze; consider the social ballet, and who are these women *performing* for? What happens when we free ourselves of the idea of being performative to allow others in? Do you feel invited into their world? Editor: I see what you mean. The whole point is the display of fashion! Thanks for bringing that perspective. Curator: It’s a mutual exchange! And it leaves one dreaming, doesn't it, of the hidden narratives within those magnificent garments.