Story of Golden Locks

Seymour Joseph Guy American, born England

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 763

While little known today, the English-born Guy was celebrated in his lifetime for his charming and technically accomplished genre paintings of childhood. In this work, the artist depicts his own children reading a version of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." The young girl’s menacing bear-like shadow and the boys’ wide eyes suggest that they have reached the story’s frightening climax. In addition to the didactic message of the fairy tale—warning children not to wander from home—Guy presents his adolescent daughter on the verge of change, turning away from childhood games and assuming a more adult, maternal role.

Story of Golden Locks, Seymour Joseph Guy (American (born England), London 1824–1910 New York), Oil on canvas, American

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Story of Golden Locks, Seymour Joseph Guy (American (born England), London 1824–1910 New York), Oil on canvas, American
Story of Golden Locks, Seymour Joseph Guy (American (born England), London 1824–1910 New York), Oil on canvas, American

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