The Portico of the National Gallery, London 1878

James Tissot created this print of the Portico of the National Gallery in London. The print gives us a glimpse into the social complexities of Victorian England, focusing on themes of identity and class. The woman at the forefront exudes an air of detached observation. In contrast, the couple behind her seems engrossed in their private world. Tissot uses the architectural grandeur of the National Gallery to frame these figures, emphasizing the different roles people play in the public sphere. What does it mean to be a woman in public in the late 19th century? How do the gazes of the subjects interact with the architecture? Tissot was interested in capturing the nuances of modern life. His work often depicted the social interactions and unspoken codes that governed Victorian society. "I paint what I see" Tissot once said, revealing his commitment to realism and observation. Tissot’s print invites us to consider the silent narratives that unfold in public spaces, and the personal stories that are often overshadowed by societal structures.