Two Boars c. 19th century

Editor: This is Karl Bodmer's "Two Boars," a captivating print held at the Harvard Art Museums. The frantic energy and dense forest backdrop are quite striking. What do you make of the boars’ hurried escape? Curator: You know, it feels almost primal, doesn't it? Look at the frantic lines, the way the forest seems to press in. There's a sense of urgency, a wildness that's both thrilling and a bit unsettling. Perhaps Bodmer is inviting us to reflect on nature's untamed spirit, or maybe even hinting at a deeper unease within ourselves. What do you feel when you look at it? Editor: I feel a sense of vulnerability, like they're being hunted. Curator: Precisely! That fear is palpable. And isn’t it fascinating how a simple image of boars can evoke such complex feelings? It reminds us of our shared vulnerability with all creatures, great and small. Editor: Definitely food for thought. I'll never look at a wild boar the same way again!