Blindman's Bluff c. 18th century

Curator: This is Ferdinand Kobell’s “Blindman’s Bluff.” It captures a scene of children playing. The printwork dates to the late 18th century. Editor: The composition is fascinating! The tight clustering of the figures creates a sense of confined energy, almost claustrophobic despite the playful subject. Curator: Indeed. Kobell's work gained traction amidst the Enlightenment's fascination with childhood, yet it also coincided with growing concerns about children's labor and social roles. Editor: The cross-hatching is expertly done, providing depth and shadow, guiding the eye from the blindfolded child to the pile of bodies. Curator: This work reminds us of how childhood has been both idealized and exploited throughout history, shaped by societal expectations and economic forces. Editor: The details here are exquisite! Note how the blindfold is rendered, with distinct differences in tone that create a sense of three-dimensionality. Curator: A stark depiction of innocence, perhaps? Editor: Or perhaps a playful distortion of vision—both literal and metaphorical—in a society on the cusp of massive change.