Fox Killing a Hen c. 1719

Editor: Here we have Claude Gillot's "Fox Killing a Hen." It’s a pretty small print, quite stark with its etching lines, and it captures such a violent, visceral moment. What strikes you most about this piece? Curator: It's the dark humor, I think. The fox is caught in the act, but the composition isn't gruesome, it's almost comical. And the cat? It is watching the scene unfold with interest. Do you see any irony in that? Editor: I suppose that the cat is a predator as well, but it does not seem like it is being judged for its intentions. Curator: Exactly! It speaks to a certain acceptance of natural hierarchy, doesn’t it? I wonder if Gillot is making a comment about society. Editor: That’s really interesting. I hadn't thought about it that way. There's more to this little scene than meets the eye, isn't there? Curator: There always is, isn’t there?