Household People
1905
Created in 1905 during the Art Nouveau period, this illustration by Fernand Louis Gottlob titled 'Gens de maison' (Household People) captures a humorous domestic scene. A seated nursemaid, wearing a traditional cap, looks up at a tall, standing man with an expression of immense pride. The handwritten French caption reveals the punchline: she is boasting about her financial savvy, claiming to have saved a massive sum on her tiny monthly wage of 75 francs while preparing to wake 'little Mr. Auguste.' It’s a charming, witty snapshot of Belle Époque life that playfully highlights the bold personalities and grand claims of domestic staff.
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