Quels brimborions 

Editor: Here we have “Quels brimborions,” a pencil sketch by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen. There’s a crowd of children with what seems like their caretaker, and there's a feeling of bustling energy despite it just being a pencil sketch. What strikes you when you look at this drawing? Curator: Well, for me, Steinlen's drawing isn't just a snapshot of daily life; it reflects the socio-political realities of his time. It is reminiscent of Parisian life. How might this depiction of working-class families challenge or reinforce the era's societal norms regarding labor and leisure? Editor: I see what you mean. There's something about the children’s weary expressions and simple clothing that speaks to that reality. Do you think it could be considered a critique of the time period? Curator: Exactly! Through his illustrations of Parisian street life, including his cat drawings, Steinlen advocated for social change. It encourages a reflection on the systems that shape these children's lives. What aspects of their depiction suggest that social commentary to you? Is it the collective unity, or perhaps a touch of bleakness in the woman's stoic nature? Editor: The matching clothing might symbolize class, while the woman's almost exhausted gaze could be Steinlen's way of making the viewer recognize this theme of societal disadvantage. I also hadn't thought of the art nouveau connection. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. Considering Steinlen's contribution to poster art and his socialist leanings, understanding his work within the fin-de-siècle context reveals art's power as social commentary. We both recognize more subtle details with each encounter. Editor: That is a helpful new perspective to view art, thank you!