Clio, Muse of History, from the Goddesses of the Greeks and Romans series (N188) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

Curator: This delicate little print, "Clio, Muse of History," comes to us from an 1889 series titled "Goddesses of the Greeks and Romans," issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. I just love the fact that it was originally distributed as a promotional item—presumably included with, let’s say, cigarettes? Editor: Instantly charming. There's something so gentle in her gaze, so innocent and...pink. The overall mood feels almost wistful. Is she happy with history, or maybe a bit sad? I bet her favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry. Curator: Her gentle countenance may derive in part from the medium itself. The use of colored pencils in this piece lends itself to very subtle gradations, softening what might otherwise be rendered more graphically. It suggests, also, an intimacy. Editor: Yes, I see that. There’s something touchable about the rendering of her skin—an almost palpable texture emphasized by the folds in her garment, a simple toga really. I imagine the laurel wreath upon her brow felt prickly to wear all day, and I do admire the splash of blue draped across her front; very Renaissance! But those tight little scrolls in her hands, though... I’ve a complicated relationship with the written word. Curator: Isn’t it curious how ancient iconography bleeds so easily into other historical periods? Her “brand” transcends temporal limitations, you might say. And speaking of her scrolls, do you think that is where our history is written or herstory? Maybe Kimball’s artist left space in there for everyone’s memories and accomplishments. Editor: It's probably got my terrible puns written all over it! I see so many levels to her persona. Clio—an immortal being—becomes here this sort of approachable girl-next-door type; a perfect pin-up muse for...tobacco consumption? You are right; the series in total is ripe for modern contextualisation. Curator: Well, what a delightful and nuanced read of Clio! Editor: I do enjoy meeting the Muses; each holds an intriguing and timeless story to behold.