Wool carder c. 19th century

Editor: This etching by Jean-François Millet depicts a woman using hand carders to process wool. The scene feels quiet and contemplative. What stories do you think this work tells? Curator: It speaks volumes about the lives of rural women in 19th-century France, whose labor was often unseen and undervalued. How does Millet portray her class identity, and what does that reveal about the artist himself? Editor: It's interesting how the simplicity of the scene highlights the dignity of her work. I hadn’t considered Millet's background playing a role. Curator: Exactly. Consider how his artistic choices challenge the prevailing societal norms and invite us to reflect on the intersections of labor, gender, and social class. Editor: That reframes the image entirely. I see a statement, not just a scene. Curator: Indeed. It is a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for social commentary and change.