Kostuums before 1878

Editor: Here we have "Kostuums," or "Costumes," by David van der Kellen, created before 1878. It’s a pencil and etching drawing, almost like a glimpse into another time. I find the lack of color makes it feel distant, like a faded memory. What's your take? Curator: You know, I'm immediately drawn into the detail. Despite its monochrome simplicity, this piece vibrates with a keen observation of social life, a theatricality. Look at how Van der Kellen captures the various interactions. Can you see it's almost like a stage set? I wonder, what is the 'play' about? Is it dinner, business, a rendezvous of some kind? Editor: It's interesting you mention theater. It does have that staged feeling. What strikes me is the precision. Every line feels intentional. What do you think it reveals about the artist’s intentions? Curator: Ah, the beauty of intent. I believe Van der Kellen wasn’t simply documenting clothes, but capturing character, aspiration and status – and isn’t that what costume is *always* about? These people could be anybodies if divested of their dress and surrounding context. Van der Kellen is capturing a world, or more likely, a *desire* for a world, an ambition for social grace, through attire and setting. What feeling do you get from those gathered at the table? Editor: I hadn't considered the aspirations that vividly, I was so focused on the drawing technique! At the table, I sense almost a formality... perhaps slightly awkward interactions. Now, it's difficult to unsee what you highlighted, costume as performance, the layers of meaning woven in. Thank you. Curator: Isn’t that the joy of really *seeing*? I am thrilled you are seeing it in this piece!