#18298 Max Klinger (1857-1920)

The engraving presents a scene steeped in classical allusion and subtle social commentary. Here we observe a woman reclining on a cushioned platform, seemingly engaged with a small rectangular device held close to her face. She is draped in a flowing garment reminiscent of ancient Greek or Roman attire, further reinforcing the connection to antiquity. A substantial Corinthian column rises prominently at the left edge of the composition, establishing an architectural framework that evokes grandeur and permanence.
The woman’s posture suggests leisure and detachment. Her gaze is fixed on the device, her expression unreadable – a studied neutrality that hints at preoccupation or perhaps even boredom. The placement of the platform elevates her above the bustling activity visible in the background, creating a visual hierarchy that underscores her privileged position.
Below, a cityscape unfolds, populated by figures engaged in various activities. A tall obelisk punctuates the skyline, serving as a symbolic marker of power and civilization. The crowd appears to be observing something beyond the frame, their attention drawn away from the woman on the platform. This juxtaposition highlights a potential disconnect between the individual’s private world (represented by her engagement with the device) and the public sphere.
The engravings monochrome palette contributes to its overall tone of formality and distance. The fine lines used to depict details suggest meticulous observation, yet the lack of color lends an air of detachment.
Subtly, the work appears to critique modern preoccupation with technology and its potential to isolate individuals from their surroundings. By placing this contemporary activity within a classical setting, the artist invites reflection on how human behavior and societal structures evolve while certain patterns – such as the pursuit of leisure and the desire for distinction – remain constant across time periods. The image’s power lies in its ability to simultaneously evoke familiarity and provoke questions about our relationship with technology and social standing.