Old Men's Enjoyment c. 18th century

Editor: This is "Old Men's Enjoyment" by Jacques Firmin Beauvarlet. It's an etching, and the scene feels so intimate, like a captured moment. What do you see in this piece, beyond just old men enjoying… something? Curator: It tickles my funny bone, honestly. Look at their faces, all scrunched up in concentration over their little pile of coins. It's about more than just money, isn't it? It’s about control, security, maybe even a bit of rebellion in their twilight years. Ever feel like you're hoarding moments, not money? Editor: That's a really interesting take! I was so focused on the age aspect, but the idea of rebellion… I hadn't considered that. Curator: Exactly! It's a reminder that joy, in any form, is precious, especially as time marches on. Beauvarlet's captured a quiet revolution here.