"Zwei gute Freunde machen einen Grind mit einander" Nr. 1 1787

Johan Christoph Seehusen created this etching, "Two Good Friends Making a Grind with Each Other No. 1," in Denmark around 1796. It depicts two men engaged in what appears to be a rather comical, perhaps even humiliating, activity. The image itself, with its loose, somewhat satirical style, points to a broader cultural context. What might be the meaning of this so-called 'grind'? Is it a commentary on social relations, perhaps poking fun at the affectations or foibles of the upper classes? To fully understand the image's meaning, we need to explore the social and cultural landscape of late 18th-century Denmark. Were there specific social rituals or performances that this image references? Were there debates around class, gender, or social status that might have influenced Seehusen's work? Researching the visual culture and social history of the time can offer insights into the meaning and significance of this intriguing image.