Fattigbestyrerdjævlen 1831

Editor: This is "Fattigbestyrerdjævlen," or "The Poor Law Devil," made around 1831 by Søren Schiøtt. It’s an engraving with watercolor on paper, and what strikes me is how theatrical and almost comical it looks, even though it seems to be addressing poverty. What do you make of the figures, and their somewhat beastly appearance? Curator: Ah, yes, Schiøtt. It reminds me of a darkly comedic puppet show. Each character, rendered with such exaggerated features, seems caught in a tragic dance. The fox-headed figure and the devilish character are not just visually striking; they speak volumes about the artist's critique of power structures. I feel the work is saying something important about societal wolves in sheep's clothing, or devils promising aid but delivering misery. What do you think that might be? Editor: It’s interesting you see it as a critique. The bestial figures make me think about dehumanization – how the powerful can strip people of their dignity. Curator: Absolutely, the artist is definitely exploring that uncomfortable space. And what about the captions that come out of the characters’ mouths? Editor: Right. So, one side seems to be flattering, “I’ve known you as a most outstanding man, a most honourable man! … I humbly ask on behalf of the French!” And the other looks like excuses, blaming circumstances on the people who are requesting aid: “There are people and then we have people”. I suppose what makes me question my assumptions is whether those with money *have* somehow “earned” what they own in some way. Is this critique just another version of being envious? I like it precisely *because* it creates that kind of internal tension in the viewer. Curator: I love that it provokes those tensions in you. Schiøtt's work, to me, acts like a distorted mirror reflecting our own moral complexities and our never-ending dance with difficult questions. I feel richer from considering it! Editor: Definitely. This makes me look differently at other satirical artworks; to find a similar playfulness but also social commentary.