Meaning: The quote "Caviar is to dining what a sable coat is to a girl in evening dress" by Ludwig Bemelmans conveys the idea that caviar is a luxurious and elegant addition to a dining experience, much like how a sable coat adds a sense of opulence and sophistication to a woman's evening attire. Ludwig Bemelmans, an Austrian-American author and illustrator best known for his Madeline children's books, was also a keen observer of society and culture, and his quote reflects his appreciation for the finer things in life.

Caviar, which consists of salt-cured fish roe, is often associated with high-end dining and is considered a delicacy in many cultures. It is often served as an appetizer or accompaniment to champagne, and its rich, briny flavor is prized by food enthusiasts around the world. Similarly, a sable coat, made from the fur of the sable, a small mammal native to Russia and Siberia, is renowned for its luxurious softness and warmth, and has long been a status symbol in the world of fashion.

The comparison drawn in Bemelmans' quote suggests that both caviar and a sable coat elevate the experience they are a part of. Just as a sable coat adds an air of elegance and glamour to a woman's evening attire, caviar enhances the sophistication and luxury of a dining occasion. Both are symbols of wealth, refinement, and exclusivity, and their presence elevates the overall experience.

In the context of dining, the consumption of caviar has historically been associated with royalty and aristocracy. Its scarcity and labor-intensive production process contribute to its high cost, making it a luxury item reserved for special occasions or for those with discerning tastes. The indulgence of caviar is often accompanied by a sense of celebration and indulgence, much like the feeling of wearing a sable coat to a glamorous event.

Similarly, the sable coat has long been a coveted item in the world of fashion. Its rarity and the craftsmanship involved in its production make it a symbol of luxury and exclusivity. The wearer of a sable coat exudes a sense of sophistication and refinement, much like the aura of elegance and opulence that caviar brings to a dining experience.

Bemelmans' comparison of caviar to a sable coat highlights the parallel between these two symbols of luxury and refinement, and the way in which they enhance the experiences they are a part of. The quote captures the essence of luxury, elegance, and exclusivity, and serves as a reminder of the pleasure and indulgence that can be found in life's finer things.

In conclusion, Ludwig Bemelmans' quote "Caviar is to dining what a sable coat is to a girl in evening dress" eloquently captures the parallel between caviar's role in dining and a sable coat's role in fashion. Both are symbols of luxury, refinement, and exclusivity, and their presence elevates the overall experience. Whether enjoyed at a lavish dinner or worn to a glamorous event, caviar and a sable coat add an element of indulgence and sophistication, making them cherished symbols of opulence in their respective realms.