He's going to marry you? c. 19th century

Editor: So, this is "He's going to marry you?" by Paul Gavarni. It looks like a lithograph. The two women depicted seem to be from different social classes. What is your interpretation of their interaction? Curator: Well, this work invites us to consider 19th-century Parisian social dynamics and the constraints placed on women. Gavarni often used satire to critique the bourgeoisie. What do you notice about their expressions and body language? Editor: The woman on the left seems almost predatory, while the other looks skeptical and maybe a little resigned. Curator: Exactly. The title, along with the visual cues, suggests a power imbalance and perhaps a commentary on arranged marriages or social climbing. It makes you wonder about their agency, doesn't it? Editor: It definitely does. I see how art can hold a mirror to societal issues. Curator: And spark dialogue, which is vital for progress.