Graftombe van Sir George Broke, Lord Cobham en zijn vrouw Anne 1813 - 1874

Editor: This is "Graftombe van Sir George Broke, Lord Cobham en zijn vrouw Anne" by Thomas Shotter Boys, likely created between 1813 and 1874, using watercolor. It's a peaceful church interior scene, and the tomb is impressively detailed. What strikes you about this work? Curator: I notice immediately the watercolor medium, commonly viewed as minor or preparatory, being used here to depict the final resting place of aristocracy. This conflation of artistic processes challenges the hierarchy often imposed between 'high' art like oil painting and supposedly less serious forms. Look closely; Boys meticulously renders the carved details of the tomb. What does that labour signify? Editor: Perhaps that even a seemingly 'minor' medium could be used for an important subject? The details do suggest a great deal of work. Curator: Exactly. We should consider who commissioned or bought such images. They provide a crucial record. This tomb wasn't merely experienced; it was visually consumed, reproduced in a tangible, commodifiable form for likely the upper classes who understood social position represented through lineage. Did these memorial effigies reflect a genuine interest in celebrating history, or preserving an elevated social status and legacy in rapidly changing political environments? Editor: So the materiality and process speaks to more than just artistic choice; it tells us about societal values and who could afford to participate in them? Curator: Precisely. By looking at the materials, the methods, and the probable patronage, we uncover so much about 19th century England and the complicated interactions of class, art, and memory. Editor: I never considered watercolor as being such a socially charged medium. Curator: Indeed. It allows for a fresh consideration about these supposed 'minor' artistic styles, when applied to major historical families and locations. Editor: This has offered me a fresh angle. I see it all very differently now. Thanks.