"She responded to my protests and oaths with a tone of mockery so cold that I swore to die" from Scenes from the Private and Public Life of Animals 1832 - 1852

Editor: This is a print by J.J. Grandville from between 1832 and 1852, housed here at the Met, and the title is quite a mouthful: "She responded to my protests and oaths with a tone of mockery so cold that I swore to die" from *Scenes from the Private and Public Life of Animals*. It’s quite theatrical, almost like a stage play! I'm struck by how the artist uses animals to depict a human drama. What symbols stand out to you? Curator: I'm fascinated by the cultural memory embedded here. Grandville’s choice of animals isn’t arbitrary. Notice the fox, traditionally a symbol of cunning and deceit, draped in a cloak of what looks like contrition. Does it truly reflect remorse, or is it a calculated performance? The title tells us he’s being rejected; look at the bird figure turning away. Editor: I see what you mean! So, is Grandville using these animal symbols to critique human behavior and emotions? Is the bird supposed to represent a woman rejecting a suitor? Curator: Precisely. Consider the era—the rise of the bourgeoisie, anxieties about social mobility, the performance of emotions in public life. What psychological weight does placing animals in human scenarios give this piece? How does it heighten, or perhaps mock, the melodrama? The fox, kneeling and seemingly repentant, is perhaps playing a role to gain sympathy. Think of the consistent depiction of specific animals over time – in fables, myths. Editor: So it’s like a mirror, reflecting human flaws through animal imagery. It makes you think about the roles people play. What does that suggest about sincerity? Curator: Exactly! And look at the detail in their clothing - the shawl of the bird is more utilitarian while the fox uses the cloak for more decorative purpose. What has captured your attention most while looking at this? Editor: I guess the fox's supposed vulnerability throws the bird’s coldness into sharper relief. I never expected to see so much about human nature in a drawing of animals. Curator: These symbols are like a cultural shorthand, triggering recognition and deeper meaning. Thinking about animals with established cultural connotations certainly does highlight those values.