A secret is shared
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
A secret is shared
A woman whispers something into the ear of a humbly dressed servant who carries a bible. The painting is entitled Peine Perdue, meaning a waste of time, so perhaps she is referring to reading the bible and religion as a whole
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4419575
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10279905
1872 Dressed Finely Mistress Plain Secret Servant Shared Waste Whisper Whispers
Peine Perdue,
EDITORS COMMENTS
or "A Waste of Time," is a thought-provoking painting created in 1872 by an unknown artist, showcased in Mary Evans Prints Online. The image captures a moment of clandestine communication between a woman of refined elegance and a humbly dressed servant. The servant, with a plain, almost austere appearance, cradles an open Bible in his hands, while the woman leans in closely to whisper a secret into his ear. Her expression is one of intense concentration, while the servant listens attentively, his gaze fixed on her. The title of the painting, "Peine Perdue," suggests that the woman may be sharing a view that reading the Bible and religion as a whole is a waste of time. This interpretation is further reinforced by the servant's simple attire and the Bible he holds, which could be seen as symbols of religious devotion. However, the intimacy of the moment and the woman's earnest whispers hint at a more complex narrative. The painting invites viewers to ponder the nature of secrets and the power dynamics at play between the two characters. The woman, with her finely dressed attire and air of authority, holds the knowledge that the servant is desperate to learn. The servant, on the other hand, is humbly receptive, trusting and believing that the knowledge she imparts will be valuable. The historical context of the painting adds another layer of intrigue. In the 19th century, when the painting was created, class distinctions were rigidly enforced, and servants were expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct. The idea of a servant being privy to the secrets of their mistress would have been scandalous and subversive. Overall, "Peine Perdue" is a captivating work of art that invites viewers to explore themes of power, knowledge, and the human capacity for secrets. The painting's haunting title and the intriguing scene it depicts continue to intrigue and inspire viewers, making it a valuable addition to any historical collection.
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