Heavier than a Dead Donkey: Feminine Folly 18th-19th century

Editor: This etching by Francisco Goya is titled "Heavier than a Dead Donkey: Feminine Folly." It's a bizarre and unsettling scene, and I'm intrigued by the title. What’s your take on this strange image? Curator: It's Goya being Goya, poking fun and provoking thought, as always. I see a critique of societal expectations placed on women, of being frivolous and easily deceived. The women are tossing around what is likely a dummy or a puppet. What do you make of the figures being tossed in the air? Editor: It seems like chaos, almost a dark parody of play. Curator: Exactly! It suggests the absurdity of the roles they're forced to play. Goya uses humor to reveal uncomfortable truths. Does the title change your feelings toward the image now? Editor: Absolutely. It adds another layer of understanding, it's much more than just a silly game. Curator: Goya challenges us to question what we see and consider the deeper meanings behind seemingly innocent activities. Food for thought!