Were you bad with me, my wife . . . c. 19th century

Curator: This is Paul Gavarni's piece, "Were you bad with me, my wife . . .," though unfortunately, we don't have a confirmed creation date. The print depicts a domestic scene. Editor: There's a somber quality, isn't there? The stark contrasts of light and shadow create a feeling of unease, a sort of melancholic intimacy. Curator: Gavarni often focused on contemporary Parisian life, especially the lives of the working class. It speaks to the social dynamics within marriage and class during that era. The materiality of printmaking allowed for wider distribution, and thus, a broader commentary on these social issues. Editor: The composition is quite striking too. The way the figures are arranged, almost claustrophobic, within the confines of the frame. The lines are sharp and defined, creating a sense of tension. Curator: Indeed. Gavarni’s choice of lithography as a reproductive medium provided him with a democratic outlet. Editor: It seems like a commentary on the emotional labor within a marriage. Something very modern, still relevant today. Curator: Perhaps the means of production have indeed made it accessible for analysis by future generations. Editor: It is certainly a fascinating piece.