Well, my dear, at the next carnival, I gave a son to him, to that animal. And so? And so he didn't want it!, p. 133 1853

Editor: This print by Paul Gavarni, titled "Well, my dear, at the next carnival, I gave a son to him, to that animal. And so? And so he didn't want it!" depicts a seated couple. The line work feels so expressive. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Gavarni's work reflects the social satire prevalent in 19th-century France. Consider how the print media allowed artists to comment on class, gender, and morality, reaching a broad audience. The "carnival" setting is key, masking social realities. Editor: So, it’s a commentary on social structures, hidden behind the carnival? Curator: Precisely! The print likely critiques societal expectations around family and legitimacy, reflecting the era's complex socio-political landscape and illustrating the artist’s role in shaping public discourse. What do you make of their posture? Editor: Their intimacy seems performative. This has given me a lot to think about regarding art's function in society. Curator: Indeed. It reveals how art can mirror and influence our understanding of social norms.