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The vapours, or the day of memories
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The vapours, or the day of memories
Les vapeurs, the day of memories. A woman drinks tea on the sofa while her maid picks up bills strewn over the floor. Kind husband, would you heal the painful nerves of your wife? Then let her spend as she wishes. She charges you only to pay for memories. Illustration by Jean-Baptiste Isabey. Handcoloured engraving from Pierre de la Mesangeres Le Bon Genre, Paris, 1817. Les vapeurs, the day of memories. A woman drinks tea on the sofa while her maid picks up bills strewn over the floor. Kind husband, would you heal the painful nerves of your wife? Then let her spend as she wishes. She charges you only to pay for memories. Illustration by Jean-Baptiste Isabey. Handcoloured engraving from Pierre de la Mesangeres Le Bon Genre, Paris, 1817
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Media ID 23194378
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Bills Bonnet Cushion Floor Genre Jour Lifestyle Maid Mesangere Pierre Satirical Sofa Memoires
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Les Vapours, or The Day of Memories
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating hand-colored engraving by the renowned French artist Jean-Baptiste Isabey, published in Pierre de la Mesangère's Le Bon Genre in Paris, 1817. This enchanting illustration invites us into an intimate moment in the life of a well-dressed woman, as she takes refuge on her sofa, enveloped in a cozy bonnet and holding a steaming cup of tea. Her maid, attentively picking up bills scattered on the floor, adds a sense of urgency to the scene. The woman's expression conveys a deep sense of melancholy and exhaustion, as if her nerves are frayed from the burdens of daily life. The kind husband, the unspoken narrator of this scene, is implored to alleviate her suffering by allowing her to spend freely. The bills, symbolic of her desires and memories, are the only payment he requires. This satirical fashion plate, a popular form of entertainment during the Empire period, offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the French elite. The woman's elegant attire, with its high waistline and voluminous skirt, reflects the fashion trends of the time. The intricate details of the hand-coloring further enhance the image's allure, adding depth and vibrancy to the scene. "Les Vapours, or The Day of Memories" is a poignant reminder of the power of memories and the importance of indulging in the simple pleasures of life. It invites us to reflect on the emotional and financial costs of living and the role of our loved ones in our journey towards happiness. This enchanting work of art continues to captivate audiences with its timeless message and exquisite beauty.
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