Emile Pierre Metzmacher (French, 1815-1890)

Metzmacher studied under Marc-Charles-Gabriel Gleyre and Florent Joseph Marie Willems. Like Willems, he would compose scenes of solitary figures in lavish interiors.

His most humorous works depict finely dressed servants confidently enjoying the riches of their master's home. Here, the maid's plumed feather duster is laid to one side while she tentatively dips a soft stolen treat into the port. This secret treat is knowingly shared only with the viewer; her eye contact invites them into this furtive moment. The opulence of the home is exemplified by the highly detailed finish to the work.