De kikvorschen, die een koning verlangen 1876 - 1890

Editor: So, here we have "The Frogs Who Desire a King" by Gaston Gèlibert, created between 1876 and 1890. It's a watercolor and ink on paper. It has a kind of whimsical, almost satirical feel. What do you see in it? Curator: I see a powerful commentary on societal power dynamics, especially when situated in the context of late 19th-century European politics. Look at these frogs – they embody the masses, clamoring for leadership, for a "king." Gèlibert, through La Fontaine’s fable, makes us consider: what are they *really* asking for? And what are the consequences when that desire is fulfilled? Editor: A dark mirror reflecting society, perhaps? I am particularly interested in that stork towering over them. Is it fair to read this bird as a colonizer, representing the oppression of those below? Curator: Exactly. The stork is symbolic of authority, preying on those who demanded a ruler without considering the implications of that request. Think about the rise of imperialism during this period and the supposed “civilizing mission” – what price was paid for such "order?" How might the artist be critiquing those power structures? It also opens up into current social movements which resist authority. Editor: That's a striking parallel. It pushes me to consider this not just as a fable, but a potent reflection on class, governance, and maybe a warning. What does that title and the text inside of the central cartouche adds to it? Curator: It contextualizes the fable, while functioning as commentary: “The Frogs Who Desire a King.” The written text reminds us of the narrative and further adds layers of complexity. This is so that when we engage with art from the past, it's never detached from the social realities that gave shape to that narrative, making it relevant to today. Editor: This connection is illuminating. Thanks for shifting how I perceived its narrative! Curator: Art from the past resonates powerfully when you recognize and explore issues within a broader and contemporary framework.