Decorative plumage: peacock 19th-20th century

Editor: Here we have G. Allen’s “Decorative Plumage: Peacock,” undated. It's a study of feathers, quite symmetrical, almost like a diagram. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: The peacock feather, across cultures, signifies vanity and pride, but also immortality and renewal. Does the artist intend to critique or celebrate this duality, do you think? Editor: I hadn't considered that. It feels very clinical, but you're right, the peacock has so much baggage. Curator: It's a reminder that even seemingly objective depictions are laden with cultural meaning, waiting to be decoded. What do you make of the symmetry? Editor: I see it as an attempt to bring order to the chaos of nature. Curator: Yes, to order and understand. I’ve learned to see beauty in unexpected places, and you've shown me how context shapes perception.