Gum Elemi 

Curator: This object, titled "Gum Elemi," manufactured by Howe & French, is a humble yet fascinating artifact. Editor: It's surprisingly evocative. The stark utilitarianism of the metal can and the color chart beside it lend an air of coldness. Curator: Howe & French were a Boston-based company dating back to the mid-19th century, distributing various chemical and pharmaceutical products. It offers insight into the socio-economic conditions and industries of that era. Editor: And the label, "Keep Out of Reach of Children," speaks volumes about consumer anxieties and social responsibilities in a historical context. Curator: Indeed. These everyday items often reflect broader themes, revealing the social and political currents shaping our society. Editor: Absolutely. It’s about decoding the narratives embedded in everyday objects, challenging dominant power structures, and amplifying marginalized voices. I appreciate that. Curator: I'm glad we can appreciate how the history of Gum Elemi may provide a lens through which to examine larger stories about labor, manufacturing, and consumerism. Editor: Absolutely, it is also a reminder of the power of seemingly insignificant objects to unlock broader, more critical discussions about our world.