Fables Nouvelles, Dediées au Roy 1719

Editor: Here we have an etching, "Fables Nouvelles, Dediées au Roy" from 1719 by Lamotte-Houdar, found at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It depicts what appears to be a street scene, maybe an art vendor showing off his wares. It's giving me almost a theatrical vibe, with everyone posed just so. What’s your take on this piece? Curator: "Theatrical" is a good word! It's like a little stage, isn't it? Notice the figures almost flattened, pressed into the foreground. This kind of etching, intended to illustrate a book, thrives on narrative. What stories do you think are being suggested in the arrangement of the subjects? Editor: Well, you've got the fellow on the platform showing what seem to be military scenes in his artworks. People gathered to see it. And on the other side, another individual with his arms crossed looking over their performance. There's something like judgement there, do you think? Curator: I love that! It is interesting how each is presenting for a particular end. And in context with "Homere & le Sourd" written below in French – Homer and the Deaf person – gives a real angle on perspective. Some viewers may only take a small portion. Are you sensing some satire poking through? Is this a gentle jab at art, patronage, and…well, maybe selective hearing? Editor: Definitely! I'm starting to see a sort of witty social commentary bubbling beneath the surface, a hint of playful mockery which makes the drawing much more interesting to consider. Curator: Exactly! Art in that era was ripe for it. So what initially struck you as simply theatrical begins to resonate with something deeper, a more knowing gaze at society. This quick viewing turned out to be much more of an experience, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely! It's easy to underestimate art that accompanies text but context provides so much insight!