Vrouw met twee mannen met vlindervleugels 1787

Editor: This is "Vrouw met twee mannen met vlindervleugels," or "Woman with two men with butterfly wings" by Joseph de Longueil, from 1787. It's an engraving. I'm immediately drawn to how ethereal and almost dreamlike it feels, like a classical myth unfolding before us. What's your take on this piece? Curator: Dreamlike is a wonderful way to describe it. It feels like peering into a fleeting moment. Do you see how the artist balances the earthy with the fantastic? We have the woman grounded with her basket, but these winged figures seem to belong to another realm, almost buzzing with secrets. I sense a longing, perhaps, for escape or transformation. How does the setting play into that, do you think? Editor: I see what you mean. The background kind of melts into the trees, it all makes this hazy space behind them...like anything is possible in the picture. The landscape feels classical but with that touch of magic. Curator: Exactly! It is like a staged memory of sorts. A little like putting on an old summer coat and finding a childhood memory tucked away in the pocket. It touches the familiar and strange within the heart. Does that ring true for you as well? Editor: It does now. It felt just out of reach before, but understanding how the artist blended classicism and fantasy… I see it now! I think I see a little bit more magic in everyday life too. Curator: Wonderful, you have spread your own set of wings. The piece speaks! Perhaps to all of us.