Avonturen van twee muschjes c. 1902

Editor: So, this is *Avonturen van twee muschjes*, or "Adventures of Two Sparrows", a print by Pellerin & Cie., circa 1902. It’s a comic strip, almost like a page from a children's book. It has a lighthearted, playful feel, despite some scenes that seem a bit… intense, shall we say? What do you see in this piece? Curator: "Intense" is one word, dear. I see a snapshot of societal control masquerading as harmless children’s entertainment! The very crispness of the lines, the cheery palette… it’s all a cleverly constructed facade. Pellerin & Cie are masters of the "imagerie d’Épinal" style, meant to be easily digestible narratives, but look closer. What narratives are they selling? Obedience? Social hierarchy? It almost makes me long for the raw, untamed spirit of Expressionism! But am I projecting, perhaps? Editor: I see your point about the social commentary – I noticed one panel with what looks like a prison, but I'm not sure what that means in the overall story. Are you suggesting it is about social constraints of that time? Curator: Indeed! The placement of that panel *demands* interpretation. Childhood lost too soon. Do you catch the thread? It pulls rather darkly through these ostensibly merry scenes! We can either revel in naive amusement or let it sting…which do you favor? Editor: Hmm. I think seeing it as a bit dark but entertaining is probably the more accurate position, based on the historical period. Thanks for making me think about that differently! Curator: You’re most welcome! Now you’re ready to start really *seeing*. Go, seek discomfort with your perceptions—that is where the true art lives.