Girl in a straw hat c. 19th century

Curator: This is Georges Maile's "Girl in a Straw Hat," currently residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. The artist's biography remains elusive. Editor: She seems the very picture of gentle, almost melancholic, composure. A subtle, very human presentation. Curator: Indeed. Notice how her gaze meets ours directly. It's an interesting use of the female image, stepping outside of typical tropes. Editor: In what way? Curator: Her adornments are understated, her posture unprovocative. She's not simply an object of beauty but a person presented for consideration, not consumption. The hat acts as both fashion and shield. Editor: It certainly invites a different level of interaction. I hadn't considered the hat that way, the way the artist frames her, the woman’s look. Curator: And how Maile gives her agency! Editor: An interesting portrait to think about... Curator: Yes, food for thought indeed!