"Ne faut pas qu'on l'ostine" c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Paul Gavarni's print, "Ne faut pas qu'on l'ostine," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by the figure's pose, almost defeated. What social commentary might Gavarni be making here? Curator: Gavarni’s work often critiques social inequalities and the plight of the working class in 19th-century Paris. Considering the title, could this image be a commentary on the social pressures placed on marginalized individuals? Editor: It could be, given his overall demeanor. Curator: Exactly. How does the figure’s clothing and the stark setting contribute to your understanding of his social standing and the potential for societal oppression at the time? Editor: I see, the rough attire and the indistinct background add to this feeling of isolation. Curator: Precisely. We must consider how Gavarni uses visual language to speak to broader issues of social justice and power dynamics that still resonate today. Editor: That's a powerful connection. Thanks, I appreciate your insight!