Dolphins and the Crocodile c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Jacques Callot’s “Dolphins and the Crocodile,” an etching. I’m struck by the almost playful depiction of such dangerous creatures. What do you see in this piece? Curator: This image reflects a period fascinated by the natural world yet viewing it through a lens of allegory and moralizing. How do you think Callot uses the marine setting to comment on power dynamics? Editor: It's interesting how the dolphins seem to encircle the crocodile, perhaps suggesting a struggle for dominance or even a symbolic representation of societal order. Curator: Exactly! The print medium allowed for wide distribution, bringing these visual metaphors into public consciousness and shaping perceptions of the natural world and the social order. Food for thought. Editor: I hadn't considered the impact of printmaking on public perception. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure!