Wolf makes peace between Reynard and bear c. 17th century

Curator: Allart van Everdingen’s design, "Wolf makes peace between Reynard and bear," presents a darkly humorous scene of diplomacy amongst beasts. Editor: My first impression is one of discordant harmony. The image feels both chaotic and strangely festive, a sort of grim fairytale. Curator: It's fascinating how Everdingen utilizes engraving to articulate the textures of fur and feather, transforming base materials into social commentary. The dimensions are quite small. Editor: And yet, the imagery looms large! The symbolism! The fox, the wolf, the bear—archetypes of cunning, loyalty, and brute force, respectively. Their interaction speaks volumes about power dynamics and uneasy truces. Curator: It's about how these images circulate, how they are produced, and how the labour of their making impacts consumption. Editor: True, but beyond that, the enduring appeal of these animal symbols lies in their capacity to mirror our own societal follies. The image's power resides in its symbolic condensation. Curator: I find myself returning to the technical skill. The cross-hatching is exquisite. Editor: Perhaps. It also reminds us that even in manufactured peace, primal instincts always lurk.