Household Servants and Slaves: A Visual History, 1300-1700

The first book-length study of household servants and slaves, exploring a visual history over 400 years and four continents, highlights the changes in service as Europe developed a monetary economy, global trade, and colonialism. Diane Wolfthal presents new interpretations of artists and objects, analyzing the intersection of class, race, and gender and the ideology of service.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

The first comprehensive exploration of household servants and slaves, spanning over four centuries and four continents, is presented in the book-length study "Household Servants and Slaves: A Visual History, 1300–1700." This groundbreaking work delves into a visual history, shedding light on the lives and material culture of ordinary household workers and their counterparts. Authored by Diane Wolfthal, the book offers fresh interpretations of renowned artists such as the Limbourg brothers, Albrecht Dürer, Paolo Veronese, and Diego Velázquez, while also exploring numerous long-neglected objects. These include independent portraits of ordinary servants, servant dolls, and their miniature cleaning utensils, as well as dummy boards, candlesticks, and tablestands shaped like servants and slaves.

Wolfthal's analysis goes beyond mere images, delving into the complex intersection of class, race, and gender. She critically examines the ideology of service and investigates the material conditions and immaterial qualities that shaped the lives of household workers. By foregrounding these figures, the book aims to provide a deeper understanding of the ideological and aesthetic functions they served within the broader context of society.

This comprehensive study challenges the traditional narratives that relegated servants to the background, offering a fresh perspective on their roles and contributions to history. It contributes to our understanding of the complex social, economic, and cultural dynamics of the past and sheds light on the enduring legacies of servitude and slavery.

Weight: 972g
Dimension: 179 x 248 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300234879