Papa, make Françoise stop making fun of me all the time . . . c. 19th century

Curator: This lithograph by Paul Gavarni is titled, "Papa, make Francoise stop making fun of me all the time . . ." It captures a seemingly tender moment between father and son. Editor: Tender? Really? To me, it looks like the kid's about to launch into a full-blown operatic aria of sibling rivalry. The dad seems… detached, preoccupied. Curator: Gavarni often used his art to critique social norms and class structures. The power dynamic here, even within a family, reflects broader societal inequalities. The boy’s plea highlights his vulnerability, the father’s disinterest, perhaps, a commentary on patriarchal indifference. Editor: Or maybe Dad’s just had a long day and this is the tenth squabble he's mediated. I feel the eye-roll of a thousand weary parents radiating off that page. It's funny, in a dark, relatable way. Curator: Perhaps. But by framing it within the series “Les Enfants Terribles,” Gavarni invites us to consider how societal pressures shape even childhood experiences. Editor: Maybe we’re both right! It’s a simple scene that reflects on many levels about growing up, with a bit of wit and charm.