Stephanie, grande duchesse de Bade c. 19th century

Editor: This is Aloys Kessler's "Stephanie, grande duchesse de Bade," a portrait print. It's quite formal and reserved. How do you interpret this work in its historical context? Curator: This portrait offers a glimpse into the constructed image of female aristocracy, then. Consider the power dynamics at play. How does Stephanie's pose and dress reinforce or subvert societal expectations? Editor: I hadn't thought about subversion. Curator: Consider the implications of representing a woman in power, and how that representation might challenge or reinforce existing gender roles within that specific socio-political moment. It’s about power, visibility, and control. Editor: Thanks, I’ll definitely keep that in mind moving forward.