Untitled (zookeeper feeding giraffe) c. 1950

Curator: This diminutive gelatin silver print, only 6x6 cm, captures a zookeeper feeding a giraffe. It is attributed to Jack Gould, though its date remains unknown. Editor: There’s something about the stark contrast that gives a sense of alienation, the animal behind bars, the human in uniform – it speaks to systems of power. Curator: Indeed, the high contrast and sharp lines create a powerful graphic quality. The composition is bisected by the bars, emphasizing this visual division. Editor: And think about the zoo itself as a site of colonial power, showcasing exotic animals for human consumption and control. It's not merely a charming scene. Curator: I see your point. Though the image is aesthetically compelling in its stark simplicity, the formal elements do reinforce those themes of confinement and observation. Editor: Precisely. This tiny photograph encapsulates a much larger, troubling history. Curator: I agree. Considering those power structures adds another layer to our understanding of the work.