Papier à lettres c. 19th century

Curator: Paul Gavarni, born in 1804, captured the Parisian life with his incisive wit. This piece, titled "Papier à lettres," resides in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: There’s something melancholic about this figure; his downcast eyes and rumpled clothing speak of hardship, doesn't it? Curator: Absolutely. Gavarni frequently depicted the struggles of the working class in Paris. Note the inscription at the bottom, hinting at selling writing paper to those making mistakes. Editor: The hat is a fascinating detail. In many eras headwear served as markers for social class and occupation. Curator: Indeed. Gavarni masterfully used such details to comment on the social inequalities of his time, giving voice to the marginalized. Editor: It's a stark reminder that even everyday items like paper can become symbols of larger societal issues. Curator: Precisely. Gavarni's work pushes us to look beyond the surface and consider the stories embedded in the visual.