Mr. Albert? He's a gentleman from the Botanical Gardens . . . c. 19th century

Curator: This is "Mr. Albert? He's a gentleman from the Botanical Gardens . . .," a piece by Paul Gavarni. Editor: It has a rather unsettling, almost voyeuristic quality. The man looks so vulnerable. Curator: Gavarni was a French caricaturist, famous for his social commentary, particularly on Parisian life. This image likely speaks to anxieties surrounding class and social roles. Editor: Absolutely. The figure looming behind Mr. Albert—whispering, judging—feels incredibly invasive. It touches on themes of privacy, judgment, and power dynamics. Curator: Gavarni's focus on satirical illustration brought art into the public sphere. Editor: And how relevant that feels today, highlighting those constant negotiations with personal space and societal expectations. It's thought-provoking!