The Rural School 1758

Curator: Here we have Jean Daullé's "The Rural School," a work of uncertain date, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. It is a print, over a foot wide, depicting a woman with children in an outdoor setting. Editor: It feels staged, doesn't it? Like a moral lesson carefully arranged. The way each figure is positioned... I wonder what commentary it offers on education and social mobility? Curator: Daullé, active in the 18th century, often reproduced paintings. This print perhaps reflects contemporary ideas about childhood innocence and the importance of rudimentary education for the lower classes. Editor: I see the contrast so starkly. The central figure, likely the teacher, passes something to one student while others look on with varying expressions. Are we meant to see these children as being given a chance denied to previous generations? Curator: It's important to remember the context of these images. Rural schools were just emerging, so Daulle's work might celebrate or even critique this new development in the social order. Editor: It's interesting how such a seemingly simple image can open up questions about social structures. I find it troubling, though, that the children all look so different. Curator: These prints served a didactic purpose, often reflecting and reinforcing class structures. Editor: Exactly. Even in representing education, inequality is highlighted. Well, this has given me a lot to consider. Curator: Indeed. Thank you for offering a perspective on "The Rural School" through the lens of class and representation.