Francis James Child (1825-1896) c. 19th century

Editor: This is Leila Usher's "Francis James Child," a carved portrait of the Harvard professor. The material, likely wood or plaster, gives it a very tactile quality. What can you tell me about the making of this work? Curator: The process of carving itself is crucial. Usher chose to depict Child, whose own work centered on ballads of the people. The labor involved in the carving process suggests a connection to the working-class origins of Child's scholarship. What do you make of the medium? Editor: That's interesting. I hadn’t thought about the connection between process and subject. The carving gives it such weight and presence. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Considering its production offers another layer to appreciate Usher's tribute to Child and his work.