You never wear your hat that smells like pipe anymore, right mama? c. 19th century

Editor: This print, by Paul Gavarni, is called "You never wear your hat that smells like pipe anymore, right mama?" The title is quite a mouthful, and the scene itself feels very domestic. What cultural symbols strike you here? Curator: Well, the 'pipe' smell evokes a paternal presence, linked to authority and tradition. The child's query disrupts this order. It reveals a shift in power dynamics, perhaps hinting at evolving gender roles within the household, or even a yearning for a past intimacy. Editor: So, the hat becomes a symbol of loss or change? Curator: Precisely. It carries the weight of memories and associations, becoming a potent reminder of what's absent. What do you make of the hat's presence in the mother's hand? Editor: It could represent a conscious decision to put away the past, or to control the narrative around it. Curator: Yes, it's about who wields the power to define and remember. These seemingly simple images often contain complex layers of cultural meaning. Editor: This has broadened my perspective on domestic scenes. Curator: Mine too; thank you.