The Children of Momus c. 18th century

Curator: The light in this print, "The Children of Momus" by Jean Moyreau, is so enchanting. It's almost like a dream, isn’t it? Editor: It’s certainly visually arresting, but I see a more structured critique of power dynamics at play within its ornamental framework. Curator: Power dynamics? The cherubic figures seem rather playful to me, almost a celebration of innocence. The dolphins, the little stage... Editor: Precisely. Look at how the children are literally staged, framed by a baroque sensibility. The composition reveals a performance of class and privilege. Curator: I suppose I was drawn to the whimsical details and didn't delve deeper. The fountain almost feels alive. Editor: And it's within that perceived whimsy that systems of inequality are often normalized and perpetuated. Curator: Thank you, I'll certainly keep that in mind, I think it's given me a whole new perspective on the piece. Editor: It just demonstrates that art acts as both a reflection and an influencer of societal values, even within an apparently lighthearted image.