Duck Shooting c. 17th century

Curator: Looking at this print, "Duck Shooting" by Jean Morin, I am struck by the intricate detail of the landscape. The depth is incredible. Editor: Yes, there's a melancholy to it; a subtle commentary on class and hunting rights perhaps? The figures seem almost swallowed by the vastness of nature. Curator: Considering Morin's time, though undated, the very act of hunting, often reserved for the elite, became a symbol of power and control over the natural world. Editor: Absolutely, and the framing of the figures adds another layer. We, as viewers, are positioned outside the action, almost complicit in their pursuit. It emphasizes an anthropocentric power structure. Curator: True. The composition draws us in but also holds us at a distance, prompting reflection on our own relationship with nature and the historical context. Editor: It's a stark, beautiful piece that makes me think about human impact then, and human impact now. Curator: Indeed, it’s a reminder that art offers a critical lens through which to examine these power dynamics.