St Nicholas c. 1902

Curator: Isn't it charming? This is a print entitled "St. Nicholas," created around 1902 by Pellerin & Cie. It seems to be a series of sequential images, like an early comic strip. Editor: It has this delicate, almost faded, storybook feel. Reminds me of old-fashioned children's books—but with an edge. Curator: Well, Pellerin & Cie. were indeed known for their prints aimed at children. This particular example taps into the cultural tradition surrounding St. Nicholas, specifically how the saint was presented to children. It offers a fascinating look at the performance of that tradition. Editor: The expressions! Especially in those earlier frames. This figure, Sint Nicolaas, is all towering presence and knowing glances. Are they scared, awed? Maybe a little of both. And then those patterned robes – it’s like the whole thing is an act. Beautifully rendered. Curator: Exactly. The artistry lies in the depiction of societal expectations. Think of the context—mass-produced prints were shaping children's understanding of social and religious figures. Editor: I feel like I'm peering into someone’s idealized version of a holiday. Sort of sanitized...but still those knowing glances make you think maybe it isn't so idealized. A bit sinister but I am smiling thinking that makes it authentic. Curator: Or maybe this is about St. Nicholas meeting a shifting societal perspective, perhaps more commercial than religious? What do you think that implies? Editor: I think you’re probably right about how a new market helped to commercialize tradition, making things a little edgy and pushing things beyond idealized. That sinister angle, though unintended adds an important layer here and now. Well, makes you wonder, doesn’t it. Curator: It absolutely does. And I guess on reflection, seeing how attitudes towards the performative aspect of tradition have transformed. Editor: Definitely an intriguing journey! Thanks for putting it into focus.