Strong in Dominoes, p. 59 1853

Curator: This is Paul Gavarni's "Strong in Dominoes, p. 59," an image residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It presents three figures in what appears to be a social setting. Editor: The lithographic textures really strike me; Gavarni coaxes so much tonal variation from what I imagine was a rather straightforward process. You can almost feel the grain of the stone. Curator: Gavarni's work is often read as social commentary, and in this piece, the masked figures and title hint at themes of deception and power dynamics within social classes. Editor: Yes, the clothing is quite telling. It is a reminder that access to these parties, and the masks themselves, were commodities. The printmaking process replicates and disseminates that image. Curator: Absolutely, the masks serve as a visual metaphor for the hidden identities and social roles people play, particularly in the context of 19th-century Parisian society. It's interesting to think about how these performances perpetuate or challenge societal norms. Editor: Considering Gavarni’s deft use of lithography, it makes you wonder how the production affected the reception of the image. The material conditions of the print shaped its meaning. Curator: Indeed, it deepens our understanding of the artwork's impact on its contemporary audience and its lasting relevance in discussions about identity and social critique. Editor: Right, and it is amazing that it's still here to make us think about all those different components.