Business of the Muses c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Paul Gavarni's "Business of the Muses." It's hard to pin down a date, but it's a drawing, full of these nervous, scratchy lines. He looks almost like a caricature, a little world-weary. What do you make of it? Curator: Gavarni, bless his heart, was a master of poking fun at Parisian society. This piece, it's got that melancholy wit, doesn’t it? He captures the artist not as some romantic hero, but as a bit of a schlub, haggling with the "muses," you know? The grind of it all. Editor: So, it's about the reality of being an artist? Curator: Exactly! It's a reminder that even inspiration has its price, and sometimes, it’s a bit ugly. Editor: I guess that's why it says underneath, "Nothing is beautiful except the ugly." Curator: Indeed. Editor: It certainly gives you a different perspective.