Get it here for a sou! ... Just off the presses! ... All the details of a young person! ... from Gros-Caillou, who! ... hurled himself! ... in front of the astonished fifth regiment of astonished Hussars! ... in the waves of the Seine! ... in plain daylight! ... to save those! ... of the author! ... of! ... theirs!, p. 71 1853

Curator: This is an intriguing print by Paul Gavarni. Its full title is quite a mouthful: "Get it here for a sou! ... Just off the presses! ... All the details of a young person! ... from Gros-Caillou, who! ... hurled himself! ... in front of the astonished fifth regiment of astonished Hussars! ... in the waves of the Seine! ... in plain daylight! ... to save those! ... of the author! ... of! ... theirs!, p. 71". Editor: It certainly evokes a sense of drama, doesn't it? The stark contrast in tones and the figure's exaggerated expression lend it an almost theatrical quality. Curator: Indeed. Gavarni was a master of capturing Parisian life and social commentary through his lithographs. This piece, undoubtedly, speaks to the sensationalism of news and public spectacle. Editor: I'm particularly drawn to the way Gavarni uses line to convey both form and emotion. The figure’s posture and open mouth suggest a raw, unfiltered expression. Curator: And consider the social context. Here, Gavarni presents the figure of a street vendor, offering details of a suicide. It’s a pointed commentary on the commodification of tragedy within the burgeoning print culture of 19th-century Paris. Editor: It highlights how the circulation of information, even tragic events, becomes intertwined with commerce and public consumption. A powerful commentary on the era. Curator: Yes, quite astute, indeed. It is a compelling work when one considers the period and the artist's visual and social sensitivity. Editor: I agree; it leaves a lasting impression.