Untitled (man standing behind desk with gavel) c. 1950

Editor: This is Jack Gould's small, undated photograph, "Untitled (man standing behind desk with gavel)," at the Harvard Art Museums. The sharp contrast gives it a formal, almost imposing feel. What cultural symbols resonate with you? Curator: The gavel, of course, is a powerful symbol. It represents authority, order, and the binding force of decisions. Notice how it contrasts with the floral wallpaper, suggesting perhaps a tension between domesticity and official power? Editor: That's interesting! So you see a potential conflict symbolized there? Curator: Precisely. The gavel silences, while the floral pattern may hint at unspoken narratives. The juxtaposition offers a visual echo of power dynamics at play. It gives us a lot to think about. Editor: I hadn't considered the wallpaper in that way. Thanks for pointing that out!