The Garret c. 19th century

Editor: This print, "The Garret," is by an anonymous artist, and its age is unknown. It lives at the Harvard Art Museums. The scene feels intimate, but also a little melancholy. What stands out to you in this piece? Curator: The Garret offers a glimpse into a contained world. Notice the window, with its pinned keepsakes and meager light. What memories do these objects hold? The woman’s labor, and the child's sleep, become enduring symbols of care and hope. The dog could be the animal guardian of the home, a protector. Does this change how you perceive the quietness of the scene? Editor: It does, especially that the dog is sleeping instead of guarding. It's like the world is sleeping too. I never would have noticed that, thank you!