A chrysanthemum heard her, and said pointedly, ‘Hoity-toity, what is this’ 1913

Curator: Let's explore "A chrysanthemum heard her, and said pointedly, ‘Hoity-toity, what is this,’" created in 1913 by Arthur Rackham, a fantastic rendering realized in watercolor and colored pencil. Editor: The colors are really muted, like a dreamscape touched by winter. I’m immediately drawn to the odd pairing – this darling child, bundled in fur, and… is that a sentient flower judging her? Curator: Exactly. Rackham masterfully combines innocence and the absurd. The landscape and botanical art traditions inform the context here. What does it mean when plants talk back to people in early 20th century children's illustrations? What statement are we making about societal perceptions? Editor: I’m focused on the flower's plaid garment, the texture of that plaid as its woven, possibly locally produced— and the net bag full of what look like oranges! This suggests trade routes and the consumer economy feeding into these fantasies and societal messaging of morality. Curator: And the technique itself, the application of watercolor so delicately layered, paired with the sharp lines of colored pencil - consider the cost of these imported techniques from England. Do we see this level of art everywhere? How do social class boundaries inform accessibility to not just the arts but in art education? Editor: I see it! The composition reinforces this division, really, doesn’t it? There's a harsh barrier in this cold garden of who gets to access luxury and imported fruit. That metal fence and the judging botanical make it crystal clear! Curator: And beyond a political message, is this just artful misdirection? A pretty story distracting us from grim societal ills through aesthetic pleasure? That itself is a potent message. The socio-political commentary wrapped in delightful visuals that’s both disarming and challenging for contemporary viewers and historical audiences alike. Editor: Looking at this image has given me more to ponder about childhood and the subtle ways we absorb ideas about status and expectation from very early ages. Curator: I concur, I will forever see Rackham and all illustrated fantasy artworks in a new, critical light.