It's my stevedore! c. 19th century

Curator: Here we have Paul Gavarni's lithograph, "It's my stevedore!" Gavarni, born in 1804, was known for his satirical commentary on Parisian life. Editor: The linear precision is quite striking; the cross-hatching and contrasting white space give it an almost architectural feel. Curator: Note how Gavarni uses costume here. The woman, cloaked, conceals herself, a visual metaphor for the limited roles afforded to women. Editor: I see a rather pointed critique of bourgeois courtship rituals. She is essentially objectifying the man, claiming ownership of him as if he were mere property. Curator: Indeed. The title itself underscores this dynamic, reducing the man to a mere "stevedore," a laborer. This inverts traditional gender roles, offering a sharp commentary. Editor: Ultimately, it's a beautifully rendered glimpse into the complex negotiations of identity and power during Gavarni's time. Curator: Yes, the artist's technical skill and social observations converge to create a work that still resonates today.