Honden bieden een brief aan 1860s - 1870s

Editor: This is “Honden bieden een brief aan,” or "Dogs Delivering a Letter," an engraving by Johannes de Mare from the 1860s or 70s. It’s quite amusing. The scene feels staged, like a theatrical production, and it certainly elicits a feeling of curiosity and intrigue. What historical context can shed light on such an unusual composition? Curator: Well, first, it's crucial to acknowledge the growing presence and acceptance of animals into the social world. How might the artist’s choice to portray dogs in a distinctly human role critique, reflect, or even satirize the power structures within the mid-19th century society? Editor: Satirize? It didn't immediately strike me as satire. I was rather amused by it at first. Curator: Precisely, and that initial amusement is part of its power. Academic art of this period often used accessible narratives to comment on contemporary life. Think about the institutions of power, like the post office implicitly invoked by the “letter.” Do these dogs delivering a letter gently mock the bureaucracy and formalities of the time? Also, consider how the dog, especially the domesticated dog, gained popularity and meaning during this period and in the societal imagination. Editor: So, you’re suggesting the artist used dogs to mirror human society, perhaps exaggerating certain aspects through the absurdity of animals playing human roles? Like in children's books? Curator: Exactly. Consider also the intended audience. This would have been accessible as a print in people’s homes and it would certainly foster debate on the topic of political engagement within common life. Editor: This adds a whole new dimension to my interpretation. I initially viewed it as simply humorous, but now I recognize a deeper social commentary woven into the image. It makes one really contemplate the status of humans by flipping our relationship with dogs! Curator: It challenges us to consider art not just as a decorative piece but also as a form of political and social dialogue within society. I'd like to find out what kinds of discussions the artist himself was engaged in at the time, too!