Five o’clock tea 1883 - 1884

Julius Leblanc Stewart, an American expatriate painter, likely captured this scene of leisure and affluence during the late 19th century. It reflects the rituals of the bourgeoisie, a class that enjoyed unprecedented economic prosperity and social mobility. The painting invites us to consider the role of women in that society. While appearing confined to domestic settings, the women here wield considerable influence within their social circles, shaping tastes, and solidifying class boundaries. The very act of gathering for tea becomes a statement of identity, showcasing refinement and adherence to social norms. Stewart himself moved within these circles, and it is impossible not to view this work as a reflection of his own life and ambitions. At the same time, the painting prompts reflection on what is absent. Whose labor afforded this leisure? What voices remain unheard in this carefully constructed tableau? As viewers, we are left to consider the complexities of history, class, and representation.