Charles Jean Francois Henault in his Library c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Adolph Menzel's "Charles Jean Francois Henault in his Library." It’s a small drawing, maybe meant for printmaking. What strikes me is how the books seem almost as alive as the subject. What do you see in it? Curator: I'm drawn to the process. Menzel, known for his acute observation, uses drawing here to document the material culture of intellect – the books themselves as objects of labor and knowledge production, the sitter as the site of consumption. Editor: So you’re saying the books aren't just background; they represent intellectual work? Curator: Precisely! And consider the social context. Who had access to these libraries, these forms of knowledge production? Menzel gives us a glimpse into that world of privilege. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about – the art itself and what it took to make it! Curator: Indeed, and what that art represents!