When I told you, my dear sir, that I was old and ugly . . . c. 19th century

Editor: This print, by Paul Gavarni, is titled "When I told you, my dear sir, that I was old and ugly…" It’s a black and white image of a man and woman sitting at a table. The mood feels a bit tense. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, the image carries a fascinating tension, doesn't it? Look at the title; it almost certainly sets an expectation of the woman’s reaction. Her appearance, the composition – the woman's posture and reserved gaze—are all designed to counter expectations. What do such symbols tell us about the societal performance of beauty and courtship rituals of the time? Editor: So, you're saying it's less about literal ugliness and more about challenging what’s considered beautiful or desirable? Curator: Exactly! The image plays with the symbolism of beauty, revealing the undercurrents of power and performance within social expectations. I leave the audience to reflect on the significance of beauty in culture. Editor: That makes me see so much more than just a simple scene. Thanks!