382 - Franquin: Gaston, gag strip No. 531, drawn in India ink with highlights in white gouache, first published in the magazine *Spirou* No. 1590 on October 3, 1966. This panel was published in the album *Un gaffeur sachant gaffer* by Éditions Dupuis in 1969.

Franquin: Gaston, gag strip No. 531, drawn in India ink with highlights in white gouache, first published in the magazine *Spirou* No. 1590 on October 3, 1966. This panel was published in the album *Un gaffeur sachant gaffer* by Éditions Dupuis in 1969. Out on the street, far from the hustle and bustle of the newsroom, Prunelle struggles to hold onto the elusive De Mesmaeker so he can finally broach the crucial subject of those famous contracts. But this fragile moment of calm is immediately shattered. Gaston bursts around the corner, interrupting their private conversation much to the dismay of both men. Driven by his eternal desire to do good, the eccentric rushes to present his latest invention: a telescoping suitcase holder mounted on wheels. Transforming into a carnival barker, he then launches into a demonstration brimming with enthusiasm. Alas, the inventor’s zeal quickly runs up against the laws of gravity: the display ends with a thunderous “HIOP,” followed by a resounding “POK” that strikes the unfortunate De Mesmaeker right on the head. This panel masterfully highlights Gaston’s jubilant, talkative nonchalance, which stands in stark contrast to the rigid, authoritarian, and taciturn demeanor of Mr. De Mesmaeker. Through this gag, Franquin displays the full extent of his genius: Prunelle’s face becomes the stage for an irresistible progression of emotions, while De Mesmaeker’s cartoonish fury—with smoke literally pouring from his ears—demonstrates absolute mastery of movement. Through his virtuoso inking, the artist once again demonstrates the full extent of his talent. Note the humorous fall of the “bundle” as Prunelle carries Gaston down “Bobo” Street! (Freckles in the first three panels. Slight traces of adhesive tape.) Dimensions: 33.6 x 45.3.