I think the trio are two sisters and a brother, because one sister looks like she's in love with whoever she's looking at, the other definitely leans in to say, "hey, look, it's her ~crush~", and the brother looks back with a murderous intent because to him she's still a baby
Likely true. The male figure might also be a chaperone. Two young girls would not have been allowed to dine unaccompanied in the era in which this painting is set.
Adding my 2 pence, The younger sister is wearing varying shades of honey gold, resembling sweet honey and the bee hovers near her wine. Her gold earrings look like dripping nectar, and she presses her lips to her glass teasing the onlooker who is most likely to be leering in return. Honey is sweet and alluring but venomous bees are very protective of their hive, possibly resembling the brother being protective of his sisters who threatens the onlooker by exchanging a venomous, fixed gaze warning him against taking things any further. The knife in his pocket is symbolic of a bees stinger which is always closely equipped. The bee is always ready to die for its cause or the safety of its queen/hive. It's possible that the man is married to the veiled lady and the younger maiden is his sister-in-law. The mans sash is red and gold closely matching the colours worn by the older sister, red could represent the love they share as sashes were often used in marriage ceremonies to tie the knot. The veiled lady brought the scenario to his attention, it looks like he turned around furiously in the moment and she barely finished her sentence.
You missed an option to describe the trio: They are all siblings. The girls see an attractive man, possibily a rogue or rake; he acknowledges the girl's stares with his own leering. The older girl is of an age to understand what the rake is doing, and has a dismissive attitude: she isn't falling for his tricks. The Younger Sister is completely, totally, invested in this staring contest. She doesn't understand the full ramifications of what will happen, should she follow the man; hence the 'come hither' look. She is on the verge of 'coming of age' and is ready to become a woman, and potentially a wife and mother. The brother sees the 'bedroom eyes' of his sisters and turns to see what they are staring at, and he reacts, as a protective brother would- especially since the younger sister is trapped against the wall, and her brother is sitting across from her. The napkin hat: I believe this is a traditional head wear and the older sister wearing it , indicates she is 'off the market and isn't shopping for a husband.' The only time a woman's head was bare, was in her teen years when she was actively looking for a husband. Notice the older sister's earrings are studs, while the younger sister's earrings are long drops, excentuating her neck. Her raven hair hair is pulled back from her face showing lots of skin around her neck and her upper chest. The decanters... that is a common design for wine decanters, because they are still made today; the same decanters are on the table of men behind them. They could be phallic symbols or it's just a coincidence. The design of the decanters might, and a big might, be specifically designed as phallic symbles, but I don't know the historic origins of the decanters. Those pesky Romans had all kinds of lurid symbols in their utilitarian objects. Since Bloch was so good at capturing emotion... the emotion on that cat's face tells me: she is there for a hand out. I agree with you: this painting has far more emotional intrique than the original painting this was fashioned after. This painting tells a story, where as the other one is just a glimpse of two girls welcoming their father to the table. No tension what so ever.
@Objectiveobserver Thank you very much for your helpful insite! The Woman narrator & informant etc of the channel usually does a fantastic job explaining everything... this time I felt L hanging-& while your information covers almost everything -I'm still L wondering other than the possible phallic symbol-what was so "saucy" by her account? Or even everyone's account... Can anyone help fill in what I missed as far as this "sauciness"? All I got was a lot of background on the gentlemen at the table & the painter-which is as always fabulous-but missed the main course!
Same. Even the cat is not amused, I wonder if it was a joke he did on his friend because why would one commission a painting that stares back at you and judges you.
The thing that strikes me is how modern his subjects look - change their clothes for jeans and sundresses and I’d expect to run into any of them on the street. Most historical painters have such a stylized way of representing people, even realistic greats like Leonardo Da Vinci, that it’s hard to see the subjects as fully everyday people - they are exaggerated in some way. These subjects all just look completely real and it’s really cool seeing that
No, it's not like that. I wish to be in that scene because its warmth doesn't exist anymore. Now Roman bars are divided into 2 categories: anonymous McDonalds for budget tourists and anonymous 8 euros x glass of wine bars for splurges. No community sense, no culture, no pride, no hospitality. Such a shame, because Rome was the sexiest city all over the world until 1990. Now is just an empty shell destroyed, because of speculations and society changing! Anyway, the videomaker didn't tell us all that she knew about the painting.
@@massimosquecco8956 I love how the person youre replying to is wrong because you feel differently, and the commentator is holding back because... actually i can't figure that one out
@@shanleyshoupe7873 it’s because it’s the “back in my day” rant that has very little to do with my comment. I don’t really have other feelings other than eye roll
@@sonorasgirl With Your marketing-drenched insult you felt the urge to hit me, you went nowhere: I m Italian, I graduated from the Art Academy and I m living abroad for almost 30 years. I've got nothing to do with North Americans of my age you are allowed to refer with that term. You won't use such an expression with a Zambian, Turkish, Congolese, Lybian, or Iraqi person my age. Would you?
I think that he is the brother to both of the women. This is in a time where the brother would be extremely protective of his sisters. Protective to the point of violence if necessary. To me they all have a slight resemblance to each other so I'm guessing it's just a family at lunch but the brother is not cool with people looking at his sisters. I think it's an attitude of that generation and I'm also thinking that they might be rural people who are not used to the city. They seem to be wearing rural outfits.
I wanted you to comment on “napkin lady’s” expression. Having taught middle school for years I feel I recognize that expression as a look of amused disdain. That clear upward tilt of her eyebrow and the slight curl at the corner of her mouth. I’ve seen that look too many times. And the artist has rendered the faces of each of the other two people at the table with strikingly different expressions. The man slashes at us with his angry glare while the coquette taunts and flirts shamelessly with us.
Yes I think it is a bully situation. We are an old-fashioned (or maybe prostitute) woman and the group is mocking our outfit. Maybe we are too poor to dine here? Maybe we came in to beg or sell self-picked flowers. Conversation. Woman 1: "Look! Here comes the 'Lady'!" Woman 2: "Lol, only thing missing is the traditional veil, look like this!" Man: "If she's not leaving, Imma make her leave"
I grew up with Bloch Christian paintings in books. I still love them. This video was an interesting view of another aspect of his art. The painting might have been saucy in his time, but now it's no big deal. The man looks startled, as if he sees someone who makes him feel threatened. Why? I don't know. Maybe people are after him for something.
@@dianalindeman1644 The guy looks like he's eating with his sisters and some guy is trying to creep on the girls. The girls look somewhat intrigued and flirtatious. Who knows, the person of their attention could be the village playboy.
My favourite part is simply Carl Bloch's ability with a brush: the beautiful silk' skirt, their skin, every little detail is exquisitely executed, timeless.
I am so disapointed in myself right now, i have seen this painting so many times on Instagram and i just now notice that there is a kitty behind the lady with the red pearl necklace 😅. But what you said about the cat representing promiscuity in some paintings is really interesting, have you consider making a video about animal symbolism in paintings and art in general?
I interpret it like this: The man is angry, the woman with the napkin is embarrassed and the woman in the middle is condesending. Some act has triggered these three responses in three different people. It's totally possible to think of something you could do or say to get these reactions at the same time. The difference may reflect their individual personality or their relationship to the subject. I find this painting really unsetteling but fashinating.
The level of detail in this painting is incredible. The skin looks so realistic, in the foreground and in the background, their eyebrows with the downward growing hairs at the arches, I'm amazed
Goes to show how art speaks differently to everyone, my immediate interpretation upon seeing it for the first time was thinking these three were talking shit about me. As if the man and the girl in the back were like "Ugh why are THEY here" while the girl with the headpiece seems like she's happy for the oportunity to mock us. It took a second glance to notice the saucy looks. While I appreciate art, I'm not very knowledgeable about it, I appreciate your videos introducing me to a new painting at a time, usually to artists I've never heard of.
You are one of my favorite channels. Insightful, informative, and so unique in your presentation and delivery. Anyone can relay facts - to do it through a singular voice as you do makes for some delicious eating for your fans!
art is so beautiful. the things you can tell with zero words and just words. honestly i love your voice and how you describe the art. you make my day better when you upload :)
I loooove this painting!!!😀😀🙌 I am danish and i live in Copenhagen where this painting hangs in the national gallery. It has actually been voted the most popular paining in the entire gallery. What i love most about this painting is, that there are so many possibilities of what is happening in it. It is so mysterious, is it literal? is it a metaphor for something? What is the deal with the cat? It is like it knows something. It knows whats going in here….And then it is just masterfully painted! BTW There will be a big exhibition with Carl Bloch’s painting in 2023 from 11 of February to may 29’th in the Danish National Gallery in Copenhagen.
Thank you soooo much to the person or persons behind this content! I only recently came upon this channel and I am so grateful for your work. Please keep at it. I'm looking forward to the next one!
Amazing painting, amazing faces, eyes, and costumes...thank you for introducing us to the masterpieces... Also, I did not expect the painting to be that large, wow, it fills the room...
I've read a theory that the woman with the napkin on her head is eating or going to eat a bird called an ortolan bunting. The birds were captured in nets, overfed with grain to fatten them up and then drowned in brandy to marinate them. How wikipedia describes the cooking process: The bird is roasted for eight minutes and then plucked. The consumer then places the bird feet first into their mouth while holding onto the bird's head. The ortolan is then eaten whole, with or without the head, and the consumer spits out the larger bones. The traditional way French gourmands eat ortolans is to cover their heads and face with a large napkin or towel while consuming the bird. The purpose of the towel is debated. Some claim it is to retain the maximum aroma with the flavour as they consume the entire bird at once, others have stated "Tradition dictates that this is to shield - from God’s eyes - the shame of such a decadent and disgraceful act", and others have suggested the towel simply hides the consumers spitting out bones.
Your brilliant analyses are so insightful! Every artwork you study gives us a treasure box full of historical realities embellished with intriguing twists and turns. I clicked on someone's post about a secret 'cringe' in Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks" that was woeful trash. He had pointless animations showing characters from different perspectives but never offered any trenchant observations--not even explaining the element of cringe in his clickbait title! His commenters felt bitter at being cheated, and I was happy to tell them to check out your channel, because YOU DELIVER THE GOODS. Thank you!
Susie, you led me here about a month ago from a clickbait place I was complaining about. The details and observations on here are the best. 😍I've been to Trattorias in Italy, they still have cats walking in and out of there. In olden days they were good mousers and very handy in place of poisons. 🐱😹
@@cuccicucci4480 Excellent, I am so glad I spoke up! Isn't this exactly what we were looking for when we clicked on that guy's video? He's a lazy disgrace--but this lady doesn't just phone it in for likes. Her insight is so enriching!.
@@olliefoxx7165 I'd forgotten she mentioned it. But that particular point seems to have snared your attention. You might want to mention that to your therapist--it could affect your treatment options.
This is the type of painting that makes me wonder why I didn't try to learn drawing and painting since the day I was born. It is so rich in detail that it takes what could be a mundane scene to an intriguing mystery. Thanks for covering this one!
I really, really enjoy these videos. You show us what you see, and what you think about what you see and take us along the way. I neither mind nor care for the booms, but I deeply appreciate being shown what I would have otherwise missed. Thanks!
If by "booms" you mean the sound effects, I think, whether you realize it or not, they are part of what makes this channel so enjoyable. They draw attention to details, heighten drama, and act as punctation points for the ends of arguments. It's part of the unique voice the author exhibits, and should be applauded, in my opinion!
Excellent. Keeping it simple. An engaging male attracted the obvious interested attention of the two young ladies and the other males is not amused. A captured moment in time. A moment constantly echoed through time.
this painting is so fun. my personal theory is that we said or did something embarrassing and they’re all reacting. the guy looks a bit disturbed, the girl in the middle finds it funny, and the one on the end finds the whole situation awkward
I definitely think they all look threatening, especially since the girl to the right is drinking wine the color of blood and the girl to the left holds her sharp fork directly over the decanter holding more of the substance, like blood could be trickling down to it.
Always loved the expressions and storytelling of this painting. My personal point of view and estimation as a Mediterranean like the Italians in the picture, is that the 3 of them are siblings and the brother is protective of his sisters' honour. Also this type of food and bottles are quite common in our lands, so this scene is extremely familiar to all of us because it could be a very common thing to happen and even portrayed in our older films as well.
I absolutely love this channel! I have been noticing the details of great pieces of art I have failed to grasp before; I am learning so much. I thought that the head-napkin lady was giving the viewer a more mocking look all this time, but after hearing all this analysis I am absolutely reconsidering haha
I like how the subject of the painting is the viewer (whoever the people at the table are looking at) and is essentially being told “you are so attractive and desirable that it’s threatening to others”. The painting essentially serves as a subconscious ego-boost for anyone that glances at it. Perfect to hang in a gathering place like a dining room where you want your guests to feel good about themselves as they enter your space.
I'm always super excited when you drop a new banger!!! Thanks to you, my kids are way more interested in art!! You humor is fresh and magnetic!!! Thank you!!! By far my favorite UA-camr!!!!
I agree with other commenters. They’re certainly three siblings! The elder sister’s expression is slightly amused, but also annoyed. The brother is simultaneously worried for his sister and angry at the viewer. The younger sister isn’t just flirtatious, she’s almost leering. Her look is pure lust: dark and “thirsty.” Amazing painting! Never seen it before and loved learning about it through this hilarious analysis 😆
Another option: the POV is Andersen's, the only one missing at the table of friends in the back He went wondering around the osteria, acted quirky as per usual & captured the three protagonists attention
I have had this picture hanging in my kitchens for 40 years - and it keep intriguing me - I like your analysis a lot - and you added new knowledge about the picture - that it had actually hung in the living room of the Melchior family.
I feel like the man in the painting seems threatened by the viewer (us) And the lady's seem to be giving provocative stares to us. I'm assuming this painting is almost an ego boost for anyone viewing it. The man seeing us as competition and the ladies seem to be drawn/mesermised by us......makes us feel wanted, desired, powerful in a way
Love your commentary. I used to think I was a person who noticed details but your videos make me want to look beyond the obvious and re-examine everything.
This painting is timeless. It could have occurred 3000 years ago, or a century ago, or yesterday. Maybe it is outside of time altogether, and the cat is the time master. Brilliant analysis on your part as usual.
I just watched your video again and my reaction to this painting is undimmed. It has to be, by far, the best 19th century genre painting I know of. I still find it amazing and compelling. I don't want to stop looking at it. richard --
I'm always late to these videos by several weeks. It's nice to be early (for me) for once. This whole painting screams 'new kid in school looking for a seat in the cafeteria' or 'I walked into the wrong pub' vibes
Thank you for posting this video. I know very little about art, but I do know what I like or don't like. I found your description of the work and the back story most interesting. In my opinion it's very well painted.
He looks like the older brother tasked with watching over his younger sisters. They get awfully protective when someone catches the youngest sister's eye
Forget the history. Forget the symbolism. The rendering of the three figures in the principal image is beyond amazing, and I'm not referring to the amazing photo-realism. The facial expressions and postures bring these people to life. To me, most paintings (and other images) of people look like captured images no matter how masterfully done. These people are real! They are in the same room with you now, sitting there trying to decide what to do next. They look like people you might know (and maybe wish you didn't; or glad you did. Who knows?) I swear I've run into this guy in a bar in Texas. Though I did notice the smallpox scars on his face, not something you're likely to see today. I was not aware of this painting before viewing your video. Now I'm glad I am. I can't begin to imagine the impact the actual painting has on the viewer. But I'd love to find out. richard -- “Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But since no one was listening, everything must be said again.” - André Gide
Personally I kinda dig the napkin hat!! With the exception of the Girl with the Pearl Earring I have never seen any of the paintings you’ve shown. I just like listening to your narratives of each one. Thanks for bringing them to the internet where those of us with absolutely no Art appreciation can enjoy them!
I've viewed this paining it is in the National Gallery of Denmark in Copenhagen. A thing to note is that the "napkin lady" could be interpreted as eating a Ortolan bunting which was such a sinful act that it required you to cover your head with a napkin. This would of course add to the spice of the painting.
Wow! Interesting. After the huge turkey I dismembered w tree sheers last night, this IS a thought: the shame of breaking tiny songbird's bones with one's teeth does seem naughty & decadent.
Alternative theory: the man is staring at the viewer in consternation because he saw the men behind his companions, then turned and saw the exact same men at another table behind him.
🤣😂 You're the best. I LOVE your videos. Your work needs to be incorporated into the Congressional Library so that BS can be cleansed from documentaries much like chlorine will act on water, so that we get only the unadulterated and "down-to-earth" interpretation of what really happened. You have a lot of talent and have a bright future ahead.
To me the 3 appear to be "trash talking". Doesn't look like googly "flirt eyes" to me. Those are the looks you get when you walk in on people talking bad about you.. 😬
To me, the guy at the table looks like he feels threatened, jealous. As if the girl looking at us flirtatiously is his love, or that he wants her to be his. And, the other girl just looks like she's feeling awkward about the situation.
I love this painting.. part of what makes it so interesting is the open question…”just what the hell is going on?” I like work that makes you think. It’s also very funny.
This painting is seared into my mind because the first time I saw it was illustrating an article about the Ortolan bunting eating ritual-a small songbird eaten whole (with bones and all), a meal so decadent that the eaters cover their faces with a veil while they eat it. If you are sensitive don't look it up, it's somehow even crazier than foie gras. Some people seem to think the ''napkin hat'' is linked to this meal (because of the veil) but I doubt it, since it's a French dish and the painting depicts an Italian scene. This painting definitely stays with you even without sinful meals though (the decanter did it for me this time lol).
This reminds me of a Romanian play " Stormy night" (I. L Caragiale). A man goes to see a cabaret with his wife and his sister in law. At one point he discovers that a young man at another table is staring at the women. Being very jealous, he stares back at the youth, threateningly. The same thing happens the next time they go to a show. The husband is convinced the youth is after his wife and plans to catch him following the women and give him a good beating. The youth is in fact infatuated with the sister, and indeed tries to visit her at home, but by a horrible coincidence, he enters the wife's room. Her husband is doing night patrols as part of a civilian police force. He is just passing by the house when he suddenly sees a shadow at his wife's window. All hell breaks loose. A whole party of angry men with guns and swords enters the yard seeking for the unfortunate youth who tries desperately to hide. The sister arrives and starts screaming. Complete chaos. The incident is resolved when the identity and romantic preference of the youth are revealed. The husband is very relieved that his wife has been faithful to him all this time.... but the funny thing is that she hasn't. In fact, she is having an affair with her husband's most trusted servant. But only us, the public know that. The husband is kept oblivious till the end. I absolutely love this play. You can find it on youtube . Ill post the link if i find it. Edit : the play is at this link : ua-cam.com/video/zHypJxWuhjw/v-deo.html
I had no idea that the artist was Danish. When I was a little girl, we had this picture on the wall over our dinning table and I had this man's stare on me while eating and he looked so angry. It is only when I see it now that I see the man's angry eyes were much like my dad's through my life. I too am Danish:)
What a beautiful portrait. It captured The look of attraction in a young teenager captured along with the usual reaction of their immediate family members.
I interpret this painting as a ego booster specially for male spectators. As the piece gives the experience of adornment by two female and a male figure who visually looks envious. Such a wonderful gift from a bro to another bro
I love it when I see a seemingly innocuous painting and Art Deco comes along to tell me why it is the most scandalous sh*t ever. Like, yass sis spill that tea
Great video, thanks for sharing this curious painting. I think the artist captured that second in which the eldest sister/cousin has finished telling the guy about the scene at his back (her mouth is still open) and he has immediately turned back. It's probably a guy, staring blatantly at the younger one.
I have another option. The main characters on this painting are the three friends on the back. That pictures the moment when Moritz Melchior was telling his friends specially artist Carl Bloch the particular experience he had on his recent visit to Italy. The people on the right depicts the scene described by Mr Melchior through the imagination and talent of his artist friend Carl Bloch. The cat, well, the cat was the artist’s cat, looking at him painting and wondering when was he going to stop painting to feed him.
Another great video! Thumbs up! Now as we are speaking of provocative Art.. how do you feel of speaking about "L'Origine du monde" by Gustave Courbet? I'm wondering whether there is some interesting backstory or meaning behind the very explicit content...
I think the trio are two sisters and a brother, because one sister looks like she's in love with whoever she's looking at, the other definitely leans in to say, "hey, look, it's her ~crush~", and the brother looks back with a murderous intent because to him she's still a baby
Or he's her wannabe lover, and is infuriated when he sees he eyes dilate when Chad Thunderstroke III enters the room.
@@GeraldM_inNC Chad Thunderstroke III 😭😭😭 your comment is so funny
Are you ok? He looks like “help, they’re so stupid “…
Likely true. The male figure might also be a chaperone. Two young girls would not have been allowed to dine unaccompanied in the era in which this painting is set.
Adding my 2 pence, The younger sister is wearing varying shades of honey gold, resembling sweet honey and the bee hovers near her wine. Her gold earrings look like dripping nectar, and she presses her lips to her glass teasing the onlooker who is most likely to be leering in return. Honey is sweet and alluring but venomous bees are very protective of their hive, possibly resembling the brother being protective of his sisters who threatens the onlooker by exchanging a venomous, fixed gaze warning him against taking things any further. The knife in his pocket is symbolic of a bees stinger which is always closely equipped. The bee is always ready to die for its cause or the safety of its queen/hive. It's possible that the man is married to the veiled lady and the younger maiden is his sister-in-law. The mans sash is red and gold closely matching the colours worn by the older sister, red could represent the love they share as sashes were often used in marriage ceremonies to tie the knot. The veiled lady brought the scenario to his attention, it looks like he turned around furiously in the moment and she barely finished her sentence.
You missed an option to describe the trio: They are all siblings. The girls see an attractive man, possibily a rogue or rake; he acknowledges the girl's stares with his own leering. The older girl is of an age to understand what the rake is doing, and has a dismissive attitude: she isn't falling for his tricks.
The Younger Sister is completely, totally, invested in this staring contest. She doesn't understand the full ramifications of what will happen, should she follow the man; hence the 'come hither' look. She is on the verge of 'coming of age' and is ready to become a woman, and potentially a wife and mother.
The brother sees the 'bedroom eyes' of his sisters and turns to see what they are staring at, and he reacts, as a protective brother would- especially since the younger sister is trapped against the wall, and her brother is sitting across from her.
The napkin hat: I believe this is a traditional head wear and the older sister wearing it , indicates she is 'off the market and isn't shopping for a husband.' The only time a woman's head was bare, was in her teen years when she was actively looking for a husband. Notice the older sister's earrings are studs, while the younger sister's earrings are long drops, excentuating her neck. Her raven hair hair is pulled back from her face showing lots of skin around her neck and her upper chest.
The decanters... that is a common design for wine decanters, because they are still made today; the same decanters are on the table of men behind them. They could be phallic symbols or it's just a coincidence. The design of the decanters might, and a big might, be specifically designed as phallic symbles, but I don't know the historic origins of the decanters. Those pesky Romans had all kinds of lurid symbols in their utilitarian objects.
Since Bloch was so good at capturing emotion... the emotion on that cat's face tells me: she is there for a hand out.
I agree with you: this painting has far more emotional intrique than the original painting this was fashioned after. This painting tells a story, where as the other one is just a glimpse of two girls welcoming their father to the table. No tension what so ever.
I see a similar relationship!
@Objectiveobserver
Thank you very much for your helpful insite!
The Woman narrator & informant etc of the channel usually does a fantastic job explaining everything... this time I felt L hanging-& while your information covers almost everything -I'm still L wondering other than the possible phallic symbol-what was so "saucy" by her account? Or even everyone's account...
Can anyone help fill in what I missed as far as this "sauciness"?
All I got was a lot of background on the gentlemen at the table & the painter-which is as always fabulous-but missed the main course!
I had the same feelings!
Objective, thank you for another insight.
Your explanation of the painting makes more sense and is more interesting.
Some call it the most judgmental painting of all time. I feel judged by them. And I don't even know what I did!
same 🤣
Hahahaha!
Its just like when I was a teenager and I was on my way home feeling guilty (my mother put the Catholic guilt in me!) after doing nothing wrong!
Same. Even the cat is not amused, I wonder if it was a joke he did on his friend because why would one commission a painting that stares back at you and judges you.
Yeah, but we all know you did it !!!
The thing that strikes me is how modern his subjects look - change their clothes for jeans and sundresses and I’d expect to run into any of them on the street. Most historical painters have such a stylized way of representing people, even realistic greats like Leonardo Da Vinci, that it’s hard to see the subjects as fully everyday people - they are exaggerated in some way. These subjects all just look completely real and it’s really cool seeing that
No, it's not like that. I wish to be in that scene because its warmth doesn't exist anymore. Now Roman bars are divided into 2 categories: anonymous McDonalds for budget tourists and anonymous 8 euros x glass of wine bars for splurges. No community sense, no culture, no pride, no hospitality. Such a shame, because Rome was the sexiest city all over the world until 1990. Now is just an empty shell destroyed, because of speculations and society changing! Anyway, the videomaker didn't tell us all that she knew about the painting.
@@massimosquecco8956 ok boomer
@@massimosquecco8956 I love how the person youre replying to is wrong because you feel differently, and the commentator is holding back because... actually i can't figure that one out
@@shanleyshoupe7873 it’s because it’s the “back in my day” rant that has very little to do with my comment. I don’t really have other feelings other than eye roll
@@sonorasgirl With Your marketing-drenched insult you felt the urge to hit me, you went nowhere: I m Italian, I graduated from the Art Academy and I m living abroad for almost 30 years. I've got nothing to do with North Americans of my age you are allowed to refer with that term. You won't use such an expression with a Zambian, Turkish, Congolese, Lybian, or Iraqi person my age. Would you?
I think that he is the brother to both of the women. This is in a time where the brother would be extremely protective of his sisters. Protective to the point of violence if necessary. To me they all have a slight resemblance to each other so I'm guessing it's just a family at lunch but the brother is not cool with people looking at his sisters. I think it's an attitude of that generation and I'm also thinking that they might be rural people who are not used to the city. They seem to be wearing rural outfits.
Bob k., Or interrupting their dinner. I get irate when people interrupt my lunch, especially if I have to go back to work.
I think you have it. The viewer is assumed to be male or the painting makes no sense.
Yes!
Imagine if the one looking is a Soldier😂😂
I agree with the protective brother theory. The two
women appear to be sisters
Damn when the artists could paint a whole movie with full character arcs. RESPECT.
Now we just get paint thrown about and its called art
@@rachelrehm9755 fr I hate modern art
And now we get a banana taped to wall....
the look of disgust on the man is one of my favorite reaction pictures to use. such a great capture of emotion
I wanted you to comment on “napkin lady’s” expression. Having taught middle school for years I feel I recognize that expression as a look of amused disdain. That clear upward tilt of her eyebrow and the slight curl at the corner of her mouth. I’ve seen that look too many times.
And the artist has rendered the faces of each of the other two people at the table with strikingly different expressions. The man slashes at us with his angry glare while the coquette taunts and flirts shamelessly with us.
Yes I think it is a bully situation. We are an old-fashioned (or maybe prostitute) woman and the group is mocking our outfit. Maybe we are too poor to dine here? Maybe we came in to beg or sell self-picked flowers. Conversation. Woman 1: "Look! Here comes the 'Lady'!" Woman 2: "Lol, only thing missing is the traditional veil, look like this!" Man: "If she's not leaving, Imma make her leave"
I love your pfp
Yes!
I feel like they were just talking about me as I entered 😳
The kind of look people give to a screaming baby on a 10 hour flight
Edit: Thank you so much for 1.6k likes never had more than that in my life!
So wait, people look at you seductively when your baby is screaming?
@@tinkergnomad😳
@@tinkergnomad"seductively"😥
@@tinkergnomad that stare is a seductive look?!
UH OH
We appreciate your analyses. You really take into account all the details being associated with these paintings.
Thank you so much!
I just saw your comment on the Colin and Samir video
I grew up with Bloch Christian paintings in books. I still love them. This video was an interesting view of another aspect of his art. The painting might have been saucy in his time, but now it's no big deal. The man looks startled, as if he sees someone who makes him feel threatened. Why? I don't know. Maybe people are after him for something.
@@dianalindeman1644 The guy looks like he's eating with his sisters and some guy is trying to creep on the girls. The girls look somewhat intrigued and flirtatious. Who knows, the person of their attention could be the village playboy.
They’re looking at shoes. 👠
My favourite part is simply Carl Bloch's ability with a brush: the beautiful silk' skirt, their skin, every little detail is exquisitely executed, timeless.
💯
I am so disapointed in myself right now, i have seen this painting so many times on Instagram and i just now notice that there is a kitty behind the lady with the red pearl necklace 😅.
But what you said about the cat representing promiscuity in some paintings is really interesting, have you consider making a video about animal symbolism in paintings and art in general?
That’s a good idea tho
Yeah
Every time I see this painting, i just think that the people in it are looking at me in ridicule and mockery, as if I'm some kind of dunce.
I absolutely thought the same! And they are also kind of scary. They make you want to skulk off and hide yourself in embarrassment!
Yes thats how I see it, thats how I see the woman too she doesn’t look flirty to me she looks like shes talking about me under her breath
same
Same. Maybe paranoid, but it always looks to me like the girls are sharing a nasty joke at someone else's expense.
I interpret it like this:
The man is angry, the woman with the napkin is embarrassed and the woman in the middle is condesending.
Some act has triggered these three responses in three different people. It's totally possible to think of something you could do or say to get these reactions at the same time. The difference may reflect their individual personality or their relationship to the subject.
I find this painting really unsetteling but fashinating.
The level of detail in this painting is incredible. The skin looks so realistic, in the foreground and in the background, their eyebrows with the downward growing hairs at the arches, I'm amazed
These paintings look like photographs. Such great detail. The cat looks real
By that standard, a color photograph would be much better.
Watching your videos makes me realize the depth and fascinating stories that exist in every painting you analyze! Thank you so much!
Goes to show how art speaks differently to everyone, my immediate interpretation upon seeing it for the first time was thinking these three were talking shit about me. As if the man and the girl in the back were like "Ugh why are THEY here" while the girl with the headpiece seems like she's happy for the oportunity to mock us. It took a second glance to notice the saucy looks.
While I appreciate art, I'm not very knowledgeable about it, I appreciate your videos introducing me to a new painting at a time, usually to artists I've never heard of.
You are one of my favorite channels. Insightful, informative, and so unique in your presentation and delivery. Anyone can relay facts - to do it through a singular voice as you do makes for some delicious eating for your fans!
art is so beautiful. the things you can tell with zero words and just words. honestly i love your voice and how you describe the art. you make my day better when you upload :)
I loooove this painting!!!😀😀🙌 I am danish and i live in Copenhagen where this painting hangs in the national gallery. It has actually been voted the most popular paining in the entire gallery. What i love most about this painting is, that there are so many possibilities of what is happening in it. It is so mysterious, is it literal? is it a metaphor for something? What is the deal with the cat? It is like it knows something. It knows whats going in here….And then it is just masterfully painted! BTW There will be a big exhibition with Carl Bloch’s painting in 2023 from 11 of February to may 29’th in the Danish National Gallery in Copenhagen.
Thank you soooo much to the person or persons behind this content! I only recently came upon this channel and I am so grateful for your work. Please keep at it. I'm looking forward to the next one!
Amazing painting, amazing faces, eyes, and costumes...thank you for introducing us to the masterpieces... Also, I did not expect the painting to be that large, wow, it fills the room...
I've read a theory that the woman with the napkin on her head is eating or going to eat a bird called an ortolan bunting. The birds were captured in nets, overfed with grain to fatten them up and then drowned in brandy to marinate them. How wikipedia describes the cooking process:
The bird is roasted for eight minutes and then plucked. The consumer then places the bird feet first into their mouth while holding onto the bird's head. The ortolan is then eaten whole, with or without the head, and the consumer spits out the larger bones. The traditional way French gourmands eat ortolans is to cover their heads and face with a large napkin or towel while consuming the bird. The purpose of the towel is debated. Some claim it is to retain the maximum aroma with the flavour as they consume the entire bird at once, others have stated "Tradition dictates that this is to shield - from God’s eyes - the shame of such a decadent and disgraceful act", and others have suggested the towel simply hides the consumers spitting out bones.
Came here to say that exactly
You left out the part where they blind the bird.
@@sjw5797 Geez poor bird, overstuffed, drowned, and blinded too??? Yes, that would be a wicked thing to eat! Thanks for info!
I don't think they blinded ortolans; that was canaries to make them sing more sweetly
That sounds gross!
Another fascinating art critique. I’m learning that the details are everything.
Your brilliant analyses are so insightful! Every artwork you study gives us a treasure box full of historical realities embellished with intriguing twists and turns. I clicked on someone's post about a secret 'cringe' in Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks" that was woeful trash. He had pointless animations showing characters from different perspectives but never offered any trenchant observations--not even explaining the element of cringe in his clickbait title! His commenters felt bitter at being cheated, and I was happy to tell them to check out your channel, because YOU DELIVER THE GOODS. Thank you!
I don't like being click baited either so I try really hard to match the title to the video and deliver! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. 😊🖼
Susie, you led me here about a month ago from a clickbait place I was complaining about. The details and observations on here are the best. 😍I've been to Trattorias in Italy, they still have cats walking in and out of there. In olden days they were good mousers and very handy in place of poisons. 🐱😹
@@cuccicucci4480 Excellent, I am so glad I spoke up! Isn't this exactly what we were looking for when we clicked on that guy's video? He's a lazy disgrace--but this lady doesn't just phone it in for likes. Her insight is so enriching!.
@@Susie_Floozie She said a common decanter was phallic shaped and sexual. That's insight?
@@olliefoxx7165 I'd forgotten she mentioned it. But that particular point seems to have snared your attention. You might want to mention that to your therapist--it could affect your treatment options.
I have learned so much about looking deeper into the paintings I see and doing some research. The history and analysis adds so much. Thank you.
My first impression was that the three were gossiping or plotting revenge about someone and they're glaring at the someone in the painting lmao
This is the type of painting that makes me wonder why I didn't try to learn drawing and painting since the day I was born. It is so rich in detail that it takes what could be a mundane scene to an intriguing mystery. Thanks for covering this one!
I love this channel so much I always look forward to your next video!
Yay! Thank you!
I really, really enjoy these videos. You show us what you see, and what you think about what you see and take us along the way. I neither mind nor care for the booms, but I deeply appreciate being shown what I would have otherwise missed. Thanks!
If by "booms" you mean the sound effects, I think, whether you realize it or not, they are part of what makes this channel so enjoyable. They draw attention to details, heighten drama, and act as punctation points for the ends of arguments. It's part of the unique voice the author exhibits, and should be applauded, in my opinion!
Excellent. Keeping it simple. An engaging male attracted the obvious interested attention of the two young ladies and the other males is not amused. A captured moment in time. A moment constantly echoed through time.
this painting is so fun. my personal theory is that we said or did something embarrassing and they’re all reacting. the guy looks a bit disturbed, the girl in the middle finds it funny, and the one on the end finds the whole situation awkward
The napkin girl isn’t finding it awkward - she’s giving us a look of amused disdain!
I definitely think they all look threatening, especially since the girl to the right is drinking wine the color of blood and the girl to the left holds her sharp fork directly over the decanter holding more of the substance, like blood could be trickling down to it.
… and the bread could also allude to cut flesh. This bread is my body, this wine my blood.
a big fan of your videos...they are always a treat for any art lover.
also please try to get more paintings from 16th and 17th century
Always loved the expressions and storytelling of this painting. My personal point of view and estimation as a Mediterranean like the Italians in the picture, is that the 3 of them are siblings and the brother is protective of his sisters' honour. Also this type of food and bottles are quite common in our lands, so this scene is extremely familiar to all of us because it could be a very common thing to happen and even portrayed in our older films as well.
That's exactly how I pictured the scenario!
I absolutely love this channel! I have been noticing the details of great pieces of art I have failed to grasp before; I am learning so much.
I thought that the head-napkin lady was giving the viewer a more mocking look all this time, but after hearing all this analysis I am absolutely reconsidering haha
I like how the subject of the painting is the viewer (whoever the people at the table are looking at) and is essentially being told “you are so attractive and desirable that it’s threatening to others”. The painting essentially serves as a subconscious ego-boost for anyone that glances at it. Perfect to hang in a gathering place like a dining room where you want your guests to feel good about themselves as they enter your space.
I felt threatened and judged when I first saw that painting. I would never have imagined that it was a "flirtation"
I'm always super excited when you drop a new banger!!!
Thanks to you, my kids are way more interested in art!!
You humor is fresh and magnetic!!! Thank you!!!
By far my favorite UA-camr!!!!
I agree with other commenters. They’re certainly three siblings!
The elder sister’s expression is slightly amused, but also annoyed. The brother is simultaneously worried for his sister and angry at the viewer. The younger sister isn’t just flirtatious, she’s almost leering. Her look is pure lust: dark and “thirsty.”
Amazing painting! Never seen it before and loved learning about it through this hilarious analysis 😆
I love your style of interpretation, beautiful!
Another option: the POV is Andersen's, the only one missing at the table of friends in the back
He went wondering around the osteria, acted quirky as per usual & captured the three protagonists attention
I have had this picture hanging in my kitchens for 40 years - and it keep intriguing me - I like your analysis a lot - and you added new knowledge about the picture - that it had actually hung in the living room of the Melchior family.
I feel like the man in the painting seems threatened by the viewer (us)
And the lady's seem to be giving provocative stares to us. I'm assuming this painting is almost an ego boost for anyone viewing it.
The man seeing us as competition and the ladies seem to be drawn/mesermised by us......makes us feel wanted, desired, powerful in a way
its an introverts nightmare I'll tell you that
@@Chloe11501 fr to me this painting is just anxiety inducing LOL
@@Chloe11501 Same Imao. I feel so judged by this painting 😂
Love this presentation and the highlights of Bloch's great paintings. Well done!
I'm so glad you covered it, it's my favourite painting!!
Wow. Hearing you describe art is amazing! Never heard someone describe it as good as you!
I love how the expression on the cat's face matches the hoomans! The cat is my fav part of the painting, but I'm a cat lady so that's not a surprise.
Love your commentary. I used to think I was a person who noticed details but your videos make me want to look beyond the obvious and re-examine everything.
This painting is timeless. It could have occurred 3000 years ago, or a century ago, or yesterday. Maybe it is outside of time altogether, and the cat is the time master. Brilliant analysis on your part as usual.
the time is meow
@@phoule76 🤣
I just watched your video again and my reaction to this painting is undimmed. It has to be, by far, the best 19th century genre painting I know of. I still find it amazing and compelling. I don't want to stop looking at it.
richard
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I'm always late to these videos by several weeks. It's nice to be early (for me) for once. This whole painting screams 'new kid in school looking for a seat in the cafeteria' or 'I walked into the wrong pub' vibes
Thank you for posting this video.
I know very little about art, but I do know what I like or don't like.
I found your description of the work and the back story most interesting.
In my opinion it's very well painted.
He looks like the older brother tasked with watching over his younger sisters. They get awfully protective when someone catches the youngest sister's eye
Forget the history. Forget the symbolism. The rendering of the three figures in the principal image is beyond amazing, and I'm not referring to the amazing photo-realism. The facial expressions and postures bring these people to life. To me, most paintings (and other images) of people look like captured images no matter how masterfully done. These people are real! They are in the same room with you now, sitting there trying to decide what to do next. They look like people you might know (and maybe wish you didn't; or glad you did. Who knows?) I swear I've run into this guy in a bar in Texas. Though I did notice the smallpox scars on his face, not something you're likely to see today. I was not aware of this painting before viewing your video. Now I'm glad I am.
I can't begin to imagine the impact the actual painting has on the viewer. But I'd love to find out.
richard
--
“Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But since no one was listening, everything must be said again.”
- André Gide
Very well said
Personally I kinda dig the napkin hat!! With the exception of the Girl with the Pearl Earring I have never seen any of the paintings you’ve shown. I just like listening to your narratives of each one. Thanks for bringing them to the internet where those of us with absolutely no Art appreciation can enjoy them!
They seem like they don't want anyone near them. Your channel is great by the way! ❤
I've viewed this paining it is in the National Gallery of Denmark in Copenhagen. A thing to note is that the "napkin lady" could be interpreted as eating a Ortolan bunting which was such a sinful act that it required you to cover your head with a napkin. This would of course add to the spice of the painting.
My first thought was that she was going to eat small birds
I was thinking that as well. They covered their heads in shame. But they are delicious 😊
Wow! Interesting. After the huge turkey I dismembered w tree sheers last night, this IS a thought: the shame of breaking tiny songbird's bones with one's teeth does seem naughty & decadent.
@@Leezl41 Tree shears! I hope you are joking, otherwise that was one tough bird!
You wouldn't have a knife and fork for that. You were supposed to pop it in your mouth in one piece. It's just an Italian headdress.
I'm binging your videos now. Everything you say is very insightful and great but the editing is what keeps me coming back :D
Maravilloso trabajo. me encanta tu forma de explicar las pinturas.
Absolutely fascinating study of the painting and so informative too. Thank you.
Alternative theory: the man is staring at the viewer in consternation because he saw the men behind his companions, then turned and saw the exact same men at another table behind him.
that's hilarious
Such a fantastic channel! I can't get enough! So great!
🤣😂 You're the best. I LOVE your videos. Your work needs to be incorporated into the Congressional Library so that BS can be cleansed from documentaries much like chlorine will act on water, so that we get only the unadulterated and "down-to-earth" interpretation of what really happened. You have a lot of talent and have a bright future ahead.
I adore your descriptions, and I definitely agree with others that they feel like siblings!
These videos are so amazing! Thank you ❤️
I wait with bated breath for these; they simply aren't long enough! I love them!!!😍
To me the 3 appear to be "trash talking". Doesn't look like googly "flirt eyes" to me. Those are the looks you get when you walk in on people talking bad about you.. 😬
This artist is sooo good. I love the religious paintings from him :)
To me, the guy at the table looks like he feels threatened, jealous. As if the girl looking at us flirtatiously is his love, or that he wants her to be his. And, the other girl just looks like she's feeling awkward about the situation.
I love this painting.. part of what makes it so interesting is the open question…”just what the hell is going on?” I like work that makes you think. It’s also very funny.
This painting is seared into my mind because the first time I saw it was illustrating an article about the Ortolan bunting eating ritual-a small songbird eaten whole (with bones and all), a meal so decadent that the eaters cover their faces with a veil while they eat it. If you are sensitive don't look it up, it's somehow even crazier than foie gras.
Some people seem to think the ''napkin hat'' is linked to this meal (because of the veil) but I doubt it, since it's a French dish and the painting depicts an Italian scene. This painting definitely stays with you even without sinful meals though (the decanter did it for me this time lol).
love her commentary! sooooo tongue in cheek! the fellow's scowl is arresting but is he really getting stung? that is out of the blue!
This reminds me of a Romanian play " Stormy night" (I. L Caragiale). A man goes to see a cabaret with his wife and his sister in law. At one point he discovers that a young man at another table is staring at the women. Being very jealous, he stares back at the youth, threateningly. The same thing happens the next time they go to a show. The husband is convinced the youth is after his wife and plans to catch him following the women and give him a good beating.
The youth is in fact infatuated with the sister, and indeed tries to visit her at home, but by a horrible coincidence, he enters the wife's room. Her husband is doing night patrols as part of a civilian police force. He is just passing by the house when he suddenly sees a shadow at his wife's window. All hell breaks loose. A whole party of angry men with guns and swords enters the yard seeking for the unfortunate youth who tries desperately to hide. The sister arrives and starts screaming. Complete chaos.
The incident is resolved when the identity and romantic preference of the youth are revealed. The husband is very relieved that his wife has been faithful to him all this time....
but the funny thing is that she hasn't.
In fact, she is having an affair with her husband's most trusted servant. But only us, the public know that. The husband is kept oblivious till the end.
I absolutely love this play. You can find it on youtube . Ill post the link if i find it.
Edit : the play is at this link : ua-cam.com/video/zHypJxWuhjw/v-deo.html
Thank you for sharing this amazing painting with me!
I am very glad that you found a good video format, I love it so much!!! These are beautiful little things, just like the paintings you feature!
I had no idea that the artist was Danish. When I was a little girl, we had this picture on the wall over our dinning table and I had this man's stare on me while eating and he looked so angry. It is only when I see it now that I see the man's angry eyes were much like my dad's through my life. I too am Danish:)
What a beautiful portrait. It captured The look of attraction in a young teenager captured along with the usual reaction of their immediate family members.
I interpret this painting as a ego booster specially for male spectators. As the piece gives the experience of adornment by two female and a male figure who visually looks envious. Such a wonderful gift from a bro to another bro
I love it when I see a seemingly innocuous painting and Art Deco comes along to tell me why it is the most scandalous sh*t ever. Like, yass sis spill that tea
Never enjoyed art so much. *Thanks* !
I love how even the cat is like, "bugger off"
I'm so happy u created content for this
now my wondering about this piece is satisfied. Thankyou so muccchh always looking forward to your contentt 😭✨
Great video, thanks for sharing this curious painting. I think the artist captured that second in which the eldest sister/cousin has finished telling the guy about the scene at his back (her mouth is still open) and he has immediately turned back. It's probably a guy, staring blatantly at the younger one.
As an artist , this is a great painting &;very well done.That's it.
I've never noticed the cat until now..... I've just been so distracted by the death stares of the people....
To me, the middle lady looks like she'll rip my heart out in my sleep. Love your videos!
Even THE CAT is judging us...😊
Beautiful narrative-- creative .😊😊
They have chosen a new victim, and it is you.
This painting makes me feel like I just walked in on them laughing and talking sh*t about me
Just saw the painting last month, very timely video! Thanks!
I have another option. The main characters on this painting are the three friends on the back. That pictures the moment when Moritz Melchior was telling his friends specially artist Carl Bloch the particular experience he had on his recent visit to Italy. The people on the right depicts the scene described by Mr Melchior through the imagination and talent of his artist friend Carl Bloch. The cat, well, the cat was the artist’s cat, looking at him painting and wondering when was he going to stop painting to feed him.
I just want gold extended tear drop earrings like those in this painting. Gorgeous.
The number of memes this painting has on its own is impressive. Feels good to know its history as well.
THANK YOUUU!!!
Thanks for requesting it! I hope I did it justice 😊
@@Art_Deco Yes, indeed, you did! 😊
Love these videos, thank you.
Another great video! Thumbs up!
Now as we are speaking of provocative Art.. how do you feel of speaking about "L'Origine du monde" by Gustave Courbet? I'm wondering whether there is some interesting backstory or meaning behind the very explicit content...
Very interesting assessment and speculation and......I love your voice.
Wake up babe new Art Deco video just dropped
babe what’s wrong you haven’t touched your phallic shaped decanter
Love your amusing narration. Thank you for educating this non art person about the finer things in life. ❤