William Sharp 18th-19th century

Curator: Here we have William Sharp's engraving of himself, simply titled "William Sharp," residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first thought: intense observation. The detail is exquisite, especially his piercing gaze. Curator: Sharp was an engraver, and the act of reproducing images was itself a kind of commentary. Consider the layering of identities here: Sharp, the artist, representing Sharp, the man. What symbols do you find resonant? Editor: The strong chiaroscuro creates a powerful sense of form. But the document he holds is essential—paper as a material reflecting his profession, a surface transformed by engraving. Curator: And engravings democratized art! His gaze seems to ask: "Who am I, and for whom do I create?" The image becomes a mirror. Editor: Absolutely, the meticulous lines draw the viewer closer. Curator: Indeed, Sharp's self-image resonates still.