Three Sketches of a Pug Dog 

Curator: This charming sketch presents three studies of a pug dog, by Susanna Duncombe, an artist born in 1725. Editor: Aw, they’re like little fluffy potatoes! It's interesting how Duncombe captured the essence of the animal with such simple lines. The shadows almost feel like an assembly line. Curator: Exactly! Duncombe was part of a circle of female artists who were gaining recognition. These sketches weren't simply idle doodles; they were part of a larger culture of artistic expression within a specific social milieu. Editor: I'm drawn to the handmade quality – you can almost feel the pressure of the graphite on the paper. It highlights how labor and skill were involved in creating these images for a growing market of pet ownership. Curator: Indeed, it reflects the increasing popularity of pets and domesticity in 18th-century society and its changing attitudes. Editor: Seeing the texture of the paper and the marks of the artist's hand really deepens my appreciation. Curator: It gives us a peek into the social and artistic climate of Duncombe's world. Editor: It’s a reminder that even simple sketches can tell a bigger story about production and society.