Peddler and a Boy with a Magic-Lantern c. 18th century

Editor: This is Ferdinand Kobell’s "Peddler and a Boy with a Magic-Lantern." I’m really struck by the figures’ expressions. What stories do you think Kobell is trying to tell? Curator: Ah, yes! It almost feels like glimpsing a fleeting moment. To me, there's a lovely dance happening between light and shadow, mirroring, perhaps, the peddler's transient life and the boy's innocent wonder. What do you make of that? Editor: I see what you mean. It's more than just figures; it’s the idea of journeys and dreams on display. Curator: Exactly! And perhaps Kobell is reminding us to find magic in the everyday, even in the humblest of circumstances. It’s food for thought, wouldn't you agree?