Bison and Calf c. 19th century

Editor: This is Evert Louis van Muyden's "Bison and Calf," a monochrome print at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by the stark contrast and the seeming isolation of the pair. How do you interpret this work, especially considering the animal mother-child dynamic? Curator: I see a powerful statement about the intersection of nature and culture, particularly through the lens of colonial exploitation. Consider the bison as a symbol of indigenous lands and the calf representing future generations. Van Muyden’s choice of monochrome could reflect the limited perspectives imposed upon the natural world. What sociopolitical narratives do you think the artist may be trying to evoke? Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn't considered the colonial undertones. It shifts my understanding entirely. Curator: Precisely! By engaging with these critical frameworks, we reveal hidden meanings and unlock a deeper connection to the artwork and its relevance in our world.