Folio recto: Blank; verso: Two Sparrows in Flight c. 18th century

Editor: This lovely sketch, "Two Sparrows in Flight" by Jean-Baptiste Oudry, depicts two birds in watercolor. I’m drawn to their contrasting directions. What can you tell me about their symbolism? Curator: Birds often symbolize freedom and the soul's journey. Consider the compositional arrangement. One bird ascends, perhaps representing aspiration, while the other dives. Is it a pursuit, or something else entirely? Editor: That’s interesting. It could be a visual metaphor for ambition versus introspection. Curator: Precisely. And Oudry, known for his animal studies, may be inviting us to contemplate these dualities within ourselves through these powerful avian symbols. I find it fascinating! Editor: Now I am beginning to see the image in a completely different light.